Study: More awareness of ADHD could lead to an increase in the number of children with the condition

By Staff Writer

A recent study conducted by the National Survey of Children’s Health reveals that 9.5 percent of children between the ages of 4 and 17 were diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in 2007-2008, representing the highest level ever recorded, reports Internal Medicine News.

Researchers told the news source that the increase in diagnosed cases of ADHD in children could be a result of increased awareness of the condition and more youths undergoing formal evaluations. According to the study, nearly 4.1 million children and teens currently have a diagnosis of ADHD.

Individuals who suffer from ADHD often exhibit symptoms such as difficulties concentrating and following requests made by authoritative figures.

Furthermore, researcher told the news source that nearly every state has seen a growth in ADHD cases, while 13 states marked record highs in children diagnosed with the condition.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, between 3 and 7 percent of school-aged children suffer from ADHD.