ADHD diagnoses and prescriptions have increased globally across all age groups, our review shows
Diagnoses of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have increased in many countries across all age groups, according to our latest review. We have also shown that prescriptions for ADHD treatments have seen similar increases across all age groups.
Global rates of ADHD diagnoses and prescription medications have climbed across all age groups, according to a recent review published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology. The study examined trends from numerous countries since 2000, revealing that ADHD diagnoses and treatment prescriptions have risen significantly in recent years.
In the United Kingdom, for example, ADHD diagnoses and treatment prescriptions increased across all age groups between 2000 and 2018, with the highest rise among children and a notable rise among adults as well. The sex ratio of ADHD diagnoses has shifted over time, with a more balanced ratio in adulthood compared to childhood and adolescence.
This trend may reflect improved recognition and understanding of ADHD symptoms in both girls and adults, who were previously underdiagnosed. A retrospective analysis of over 154 million individuals across North America, Europe, and Asia also showed an increase in ADHD medication prescriptions. Several factors contribute to these trends, including heightened public awareness, better recognition by healthcare professionals, and the availability of new medications.
However, concerns about overdiagnosis and overprescription have been raised, with some questioning whether certain attention difficulties are being overmedicalized. Despite these debates, there is a consensus that ADHD is a lifelong neurodevelopmental disorder affecting millions worldwide, and the challenge now lies in addressing the growing demand for diagnoses and treatments without overwhelming NHS resources.
Written by urgent.news from Medical Xpress's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — it may contain errors, so check the original before relying on it.
