Prevalence Study of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Its Comorbidities Among a Sample of Primary School Students in New Valley Governorate

ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention. Its prevalence ranges between 5.9 and 7.1% worldwide. Etiology of ADHD included combinations of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors. ADHD is more often a complex disorder with a high rate of associated comorbid conditions. Comorbid conditions are prevalent among people with ADHD and increase its burden and complexity of management. Children with ADHD are at a higher risk than children without ADHD for developing other psychiatric disorders. Most children with ADHD also have at least one comorbid condition, the presence of which contributes to poorer long-term outcomes. The pattern of comorbidities is influenced by age and sex; externalizing disorders are more common in younger ages and male participants, in contrast, internalizing disorders are more prevalent among older ages and female participants. Comorbidity involving ADHD and learning disorders is frequent, ranging from 25 to 40%. Other disorders likely to co-occur with ADHD are: bipolar disorders (11-75%), tic disorders (20%), obsessive compulsive disorders (6-15%). Children with ADHD may show several motor problems: longer and more variable reaction times, increased variability in speed and less accurate response reengagement, and impaired orienting responses, and increased number of responses with very long reaction times. Neurological soft sign have been associated with inattention and behavior difficulties for decades. Some researchers argue that these signs should be included in the diagnosis of ADHD.