scholarly journals ADHD symptoms in the adult general population are associated with factors linked to ADHD in adult patients

2018 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ting Li ◽  
Nina Roth Mota ◽  
Tessel E. Galesloot ◽  
Janita Bralten ◽  
Jan Buitelaar ◽  
...  

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder in children and adults. It is characterized by inappropriate levels of inattention (IA) and/or hyperactivity and impulsivity (HI). The ADHD diagnosis is hypothesized to represent the extreme of a continuous distribution of ADHD symptoms in the general population. In this study, we investigated whether factors linked to adult ADHD as a disorder are associated with adult ADHD symptoms in the general population. Our population-based sample included 4,987 adults (mean age 56.1 years; 53.8% female) recruited by the Nijmegen Biomedical Study (NBS). Participants completed the Dutch ADHD DSM-IV Rating Scale for current and childhood ADHD symptoms, the Symptom Check List-90-R (SCL-90-R) anxiety subscale, and the Eysenk Personality Questionnaire (EPQR-S). Partial Spearman correlation and Hurdle negative binomial regression analysis were used to assess how age, sex, childhood ADHD symptoms, anxiety symptoms, and personality traits (neuroticism, extraversion, and psychoticism) are associated with current IA and HI symptoms. Increasing age was associated with a lower proportion of participants reporting HI symptoms and with reduced levels of HI; IA levels remained fairly stable over the age-range, but the probability of reporting IA symptoms increased throughout middle/late adulthood. Females were more likely to report IA symptoms than males. Childhood ADHD symptoms, neuroticism, and psychoticism were positively associated with current IA and HI symptoms, while extraversion had an opposite association with these symptom domains. Anxiety symptoms affected HI symptoms in females. Our results indicate that factors associated with categorical ADHD are also correlated with ADHD symptoms in the adult population.

2016 ◽  
Vol 20 (12) ◽  
pp. 1039-1046 ◽  
Author(s):  
Katie Grogan ◽  
Jessica Bramham

Objective: Given that the diagnosis of adulthood ADHD depends on the retrospective self-report of childhood ADHD symptoms, this study aimed to establish whether current mood affects the accuracy of retrospective self-ratings of childhood ADHD. Method: Barkley’s Adult ADHD Rating Scale (BAARS) was used to assess the retrospective self- and parent-reports of childhood ADHD symptoms of 160 adults with ADHD and 92 adults without ADHD. Self-rated current mood was also measured using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Results: Higher BAARS self-ratings correlated with higher HADS self-ratings. Strongest correlations were evident between hyperactive/impulsive symptoms and anxiety symptoms. There was no relationship between current mood and accuracy of self-report. Conclusion: Current mood does not affect the accuracy of retrospective self-ratings of ADHD. Future research should aim to provide new measures of anxiety in ADHD to avoid the double counting of hyperactive/impulsive and anxiety symptoms.


2017 ◽  
Vol 41 (S1) ◽  
pp. S352-S352 ◽  
Author(s):  
L. Alaheino ◽  
S. Leppämäki

IntroductionEarlier considered a disorder affecting only children, today worldwide adult ADHD prevalence is estimated at 2.5%. The core symptoms; inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity, often persevere impacting many fields of life.ObjectivesTo estimate the prevalence of ADHD symptoms in the general Finnish adult population.MethodsWe started with a population based and randomly drawn sample of 3000 adults, aged 18–44 years. When contacted, participants were provided three alternative ways to participate (online, letter, telephone interview). Using the adult ADHD rating scale (ASRS) screener all participants (n = 748) were categorized into groups: possibly symptomatic (≥4 points), controls (≤2 points) and undefined (3 points). Fifty-seven possibly symptomatic consented to further evaluation by a telephone interview, together with two age- and gender matched controls each.ResultsUsing the results from the ASRS screener, we calculated a 10.96% prevalence. Analysis of the complete ASRS resulted in a 5.08% and the recommended two-step evaluation in a 3.34% prevalence, out of whom two thirds considered being moderately or severely impaired by the symptoms.ConclusionsThis study suggests that a large number of adults in the general population are negatively affected by ADHD symptoms, almost all unrecognized by health care professionals. As ADHD is a burden for the patient, his family and the society, adult ADHD deserves greater attention in the future.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.


2017 ◽  
Vol 23 (12) ◽  
pp. 1407-1415 ◽  
Author(s):  
Maria Panagiotidi ◽  
Paul G. Overton ◽  
Tom Stafford

Objective: ADHD and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can be viewed as the extreme end of traits found in the general population. Clinical and genetic studies suggest that ADHD and ASD often co-occur and share genetic susceptibility. The aim of this study was to examine co-occurrence of ADHD and ASD traits in the general population. Method: In total, 334 participants were recruited from a population-based sample. Four questionnaires assessing current and retrospective ADHD and ASD traits were administered online: the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) Symptom Checklist, the Wender Utah Rating Scale (WURS-25), the Broad Autism Phenotype Questionnaire (BAPQ), and the Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ). Results: A significant correlation was found between ADHD and autistic traits. In particular, higher inattention and overall ADHD scores were associated with self-reported deficits in communication and social skills. Conclusion: Our findings are similar to results from studies on clinical populations, suggesting that ADHD and ASD might share common etiology.


2009 ◽  
Vol 24 (S1) ◽  
pp. 1-1 ◽  
Author(s):  
C.N. Filipe

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that impairs executive functions, leads to maladaptive behavior and, in about 50%, has a livelong persistence. Nevertheless, adult ADHD is a very much under-diagnosed condition.We conducted a study aimed to identify ADHD in a special population of adults. Questionnaires were applied to the parents of children attending CADIn, a Clinical Centre for Developmental Disorders for evaluation or intervention (48% of their children were diagnosed as having ADHD and 22% were diagnosed as having Pervasive Developmental Disorder). We expected a higher incidence of ADHD in this population as well as a better awareness for the condition.We used the Adult ADHD Self-report Scale (ASRS-v1.1) and the questionnaires contained questions concerning degree of impairment, persistence of symptoms and comorbid psychiatric conditions. 114 parents were inquired, 29% fathers, 68% mothers 3% missed gender. 17% of the parents quoted above the cut-off-point for the ASRS-v1.1 screener and amongst those, 45% referred the ADHD symptoms as causing them severe impairment. Only 3 subjects had been previously diagnosed as ADHD. The prevalence of ADHD symptoms was similar for males and females. 56% of the ADHD population was diagnosed formerly as suffering from psychiatric disorder, compared to 35% of the total population. The more common diagnoses were depression (45%) and anxiety (30%).We conclude that ADHD is much under-diagnosed in the adult population. Considering its high heritability, a closer evaluation of the parents of children diagnosed with ADHD is suggested.


2018 ◽  
Vol 103 (9) ◽  
pp. 841-846 ◽  
Author(s):  
Daryl Efron ◽  
Kirsten Furley ◽  
Alisha Gulenc ◽  
Emma Sciberras

ObjectiveThis study investigated the associations between maternal symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and child functional outcomes in a community-based sample of children with and without ADHD.Design and settingIn this cohort study, children with ADHD and healthy controls were recruited through schools in Melbourne, Australia, using a combined screening (Conners 3 ADHD Index) and case confirmation (Diagnostic Interview Schedule for Children Version IV) procedure.Patients117 children with ADHD and 149 control children were included in the analyses.Main outcome measuresMaternal ADHD symptoms (Conners Adult ADHD Rating Scale) and child outcomes (ADHD severity, quality of life (QoL), academic competence, social-emotional functioning) were measured at a mean child age of 8.9 years.ResultsMothers of children with ADHD had clinically elevated ADHD symptoms compared with mothers of control children (adjusted analysis: 18.0% vs 2.0%, P<0.001). Elevated maternal ADHD symptoms were associated with greater child ADHD symptom severity and lower QoL by maternal report for children with (severity P=0.01; QoL P=0.003) and without (severity P=0.003; QoL P=0.003) ADHD. Elevated maternal ADHD symptoms were additionally associated with increased parent-rated emotional problems, peer problems and total impairment scores in children without ADHD (all P<0.01).ConclusionsMaternal ADHD symptoms are associated with increased ADHD symptom severity and reduced QoL by maternal report in offspring with or without ADHD, and have broader negative associations with emotional and social functioning in children without ADHD. In the evaluation of the referred children, maternal ADHD symptoms should be considered and referral made to adult services where indicated.


2020 ◽  
Vol 46 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. S260-S261
Author(s):  
Sabrina Ereshefsky ◽  
Vanessa Zarubin ◽  
Valerie Tryon ◽  
Tyler Lesh ◽  
Cameron Carter ◽  
...  

Abstract Background Individuals with psychosis have a 2–5 times higher prevalence of ADHD than the general population. Individuals with early psychosis (EP) with an ADHD history have poorer premorbid social and role functioning, a more challenging symptom course, and poorer long-term psychosocial outcomes. The high degree of overlap in cognitive profiles for both psychosis and ADHD highlights a need for additional research. This project sought to assess the relation between historical report of childhood ADHD symptoms, current psychosis symptoms, and psychosocial functioning in individuals with EP. It is hypothesized that ADHD symptoms will significantly predict functioning. Methods Individuals, aged 12–30, who experienced the onset of psychotic symptoms in the past 2 years and presented for care at UC Davis EP clinics, were consented and enrolled. Individuals provided retrospective self-report ratings of childhood (between ages 5–12) symptoms of ‘inattention’ and ‘hyperactivity/impulsivity’ on the Barkley ADHD Rating Scale. Raters coded current psychosocial (Global Social/Role Functioning [GSF/GRF]) and clinical functioning ([Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale [BPRS], Scale for Assessment of Positive [SAPS] and Negative [SANS] Symptoms) at presentation. BPRS, SAPS, and SANS ratings were combined into ‘reality distortion,’ ‘poverty,’ and ‘disorganization’ domains. Medical chart review will be conducted to identify historical report of ADHD diagnosis. Multiple linear regression was used to examine relative contribution of demographic variables, clinical symptoms, and self-reported childhood ADHD symptoms to current social and role functioning. Results Ninety-eight participants (20.22 years ± 3.95; 39% female; 37% non-Hispanic White; 27% Hispanic; 2% missing demographics) provided complete data. Childhood inattention, poverty, and disorganized symptoms predicted current GSF (R-squared = .39, F[5, 92] = 11.92, p &lt; .001). When assessing demographic differences on outcomes, GSF was rated significantly higher in non-Hispanic White (M = 7.03, SD = 1.80) compared to other non-White participants (M = 6.28, SD = 1.64; t[94] = -2.08, p = .04). With the inclusion of race as a predictor, only poverty and disorganization predicted GSF (R-squared = .40, F[6, 89] = 10.04, p &lt; .001). Poverty symptoms predicted current GRF, while childhood ADHD and other psychosis symptoms did not predict GRF (R-squared = .31, F[5, 92] = 8.09, p &lt; .001). Age significantly correlated with GRF (r = -.31, p = .002). Poverty remained a significant predictor of GRF after including age (R-squared = .37, F[6, 89] = 8.84, p &lt; .001). Additional cognitive correlates, collateral report of childhood ADHD symptoms, prior diagnoses, date of psychosis illness onset, and medication history will also be examined. Discussion Social functioning was predicted by childhood self-rated inattention and current negative and disorganized symptoms; however, the relation with childhood inattention did not remain after controlling for race/ethnicity. Additional analyses will be conducted to assess if race is presenting as a proxy for other social determinants, including insurance designation, in this sample. Individuals with ADHD experience more difficulty in social settings compared to typically developing peers, possibly due to increased need to use environmental cues; for individuals who go on to develop psychosis, these childhood events are possibly perceived as more stressful, adding to risk for psychosis. However, it is unclear if self-report childhood inattention – captured here as a putative symptom of ADHD – may be better accounted for by premorbid cognitive impairment associated with risk for psychosis. Additional research is required to establish this connection.


2013 ◽  
Vol 34 (10) ◽  
pp. 3168-3181 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hui-Nien Yang ◽  
Yueh-Ming Tai ◽  
Li-Kuang Yang ◽  
Susan Shur-Fen Gau

2017 ◽  
Vol 41 (S1) ◽  
pp. S396-S397
Author(s):  
B. Tuzun Mutluer ◽  
T.G. Yener Orum ◽  
S. Sertcelik

ObjectiveIn this study, it was aimed to determine the internet use properties of Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) patients who were followed-up at Haydarpasa Numune Research and Training Hospital, Psychiatry Department; ADHD Outpatient Clinic.MethodThirty participants who were diagnosed with adult ADHD aged between 18–31 years rated their ADHD symptoms in childhood retrospectively, using Wender Utah Rating Scale. Patients rated current adult ADHD symptoms with the Adult ADHD DSM-IV-Based Diagnostic Screening and Rating Scale (DSRS) and severity of symptoms measured by Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS). Internet addiction (IA) was assessed with Young's Internet Addiction Scale (IAS). It was determined that, none of 30 Adult ADHD patients have been diagnosed with IA.29 of patient have moderate internet use although 1 of patients have risky internet use. The results revealed that total ASRS score (P = 0.020), total Adult ADHD DSM-IV-Based DSRS score (P = 0.036) and the Attention Deficit related properties subscale total score (P = 0.042) were significantly correlated with the IAS total score. Subscale of the self-report scales including; failing to finish schoolworks, chores, or duties at workplace, difficulty of following through on instructions (P = 0.017), restiveness; impaired inhibitory performance (P = 0.017), feeling not confident (P = 0.017), difficulty of managing time (P = 0.047), failing to give close attention to details or making careless mistakes (P = 0.037) are closely relevant to IAS total score.ResultIn conclusion, clinical features, which are characteristic of Adult ADHD could have same shared etiology with IA. Furthermore, ADHD patients are more likely to have an IA diagnosis. However, it was thought that this result had to be supported with studies including larger samples.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.


2017 ◽  
Vol 24 (3) ◽  
pp. 402-413 ◽  
Author(s):  
Glen Frick ◽  
Brian Yan ◽  
Lenard A. Adler

Objective: Evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of triple-bead mixed amphetamine salts (MAS) in ADHD. Method: Adults with ADHD Rating Scale IV (ADHD-RS-IV) total scores ≥32 were randomized to 6 weeks of triple-bead MAS (25, 50, or 75 mg) or placebo. The primary endpoint was ADHD-RS-IV total score change from baseline at end of study (EOS). Results: Least squares mean (95% confidence interval [CI]) treatment differences for ADHD-RS-IV total score changes from baseline to EOS significantly favored triple-bead MAS (all doses combined: −10.6 [−13.2, −8.0]; p < .0001); there were no significant differences between triple-bead MAS dosages. The most frequently reported TEAEs with triple-bead MAS (all doses combined) included insomnia, decreased appetite, and dry mouth. Mean ± SD pulse and systolic blood pressure increases at EOS were 3.5 ± 10.33 bpm and 0.3 ± 10.48 mmHg with triple-bead MAS (all doses combined). Conclusion: Triple-bead MAS significantly reduced adult ADHD symptoms; the safety profile was consistent with previous triple-bead MAS studies.


2020 ◽  
Vol 8 (T1) ◽  
pp. 451-458
Author(s):  
Kholisotul Hikmah ◽  
Lucky Prisandy ◽  
Gea Melinda ◽  
M. Ibraar Ayatullah

BACKGROUND: Indonesia, the world’s fourth-most populous country, is grappling with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) catastrophe as cases continue to rise. This situation induces uncertainties and changes in daily life, leading to uneasiness among the population, which may trigger anxiety symptoms. AIM: This study aimed to analyze the factors associated with the anxiety level among the general population during the COVID-19 pandemic in Indonesia. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out among 267 adults from June 10, 2020, to June 15, 2020, the transition phase week after Large-scale Social Restriction of Indonesia. The survey was conducted online using a Google Form distributed through social media (WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter). Respondents over 18 years old, who agreed to participate in this study, were asked to complete the questionnaire by clicking the link. The anxiety level was measured by the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale. RESULTS: The results of this study showed a significant correlation between age (p = 0.010), education (p = 0.039), personal income (p = 0.034), media exposure (p < 0.01), physical activity (p < 0.01), and anxiety diagnosis (p < 0.01) with the anxiety level among general people. However, ordinal logistics regression revealed that only respondents living in the city (odds ratio [OR] = 2.476) and people with clinician-anxiety diagnosis (OR = 5.116) were more likely to experience anxiety symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic in Indonesia. CONCLUSION: According to the obtained results, age, education level, average income per month, media exposure, physical activity, and anxiety diagnosis correlated with anxiety incidence, whereas risk factors of anxiety included current residence and anxiety diagnosis.


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