Two studies suggest that attention deficit hyperactivity disorder may be silent until adolescence.
Difficulties in concentrating, in managing their impulsivity… Children who are on the move suggest that they may be suffering from attention disorders with or without hyperactivity (ADHD). The diagnosis is made in childhood, but two studies published in JAMA Psychiatry suggest that ADHD may develop later, in adolescence, or even in young adults.
These results come from two studies carried out in Brazil and the United Kingdom, carried out respectively on 5,249 adults and 1020 pairs of twins. The participants were followed over several years, from childhood to adulthood. In particular, the Brazilian study showed that in these children born in 1993, the rate of ADHD was 9% at 11 years, but 12% in adulthood.
Two distinct disorders
Researchers not only show that ADHD can occur in adulthood, but that early and late onset could be the result of two separate disorders. The screening age criterion could therefore be incorrect. So far, adults identified as having ADHD were only found to have early warning signs in childhood.
The results also seem to show that it can worsen over time, whereas the general idea rather suggests the opposite. “Further studies are needed to better understand the nature of the heterogeneity of the adult ADHD victim population,” the researchers say. The proportions in which its early or late onset reflects different causes could have strong implications for research and treatment. “
Associated dependencies
In France, ADHD is thought to affect between 3.5 and 5.6% of children. It is associated, in adults, with risky and addictive behaviors. People with ADHD are more likely to be addicted to psychotropic substances, the Internet, or video games.
In March 2015, the High Authority for Health had defined recommendations for early detection, and for the intervention of the family doctor in the recognition of the disorder. Perhaps, in the light of these new elements, screening methods should be reviewed.
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