Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in a prebariatric surgery sample.

Area of Science:

• Obesity Research
• Neuropsychiatry
• Bariatric Surgery

Background:

• Obesity is frequently associated with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) across age groups.
• Grade 3 obesity (BMI ≥40 kg/m²) is a significant health concern.
• Prevalence of adult ADHD in severely obese populations requires further study.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of adult ADHD in patients with grade 3 obesity before bariatric surgery.
• To explore associations between adult ADHD and other psychiatric conditions in this cohort.

Main Methods:

• 116 patients with grade 3 obesity were assessed for ADHD (childhood and adult).
• Evaluations included co-occurring psychiatric disorders, depression severity, and daytime sleepiness.
• Screening tools were used to identify potential ADHD cases.

Main Results:

• 12.1% of participants screened positive for adult ADHD.
• This prevalence is higher than in general population samples but comparable to other morbidly obese groups.
• Adult ADHD correlated with increased depression severity and prior psychotherapy, but not binge eating or sleepiness.

Conclusions:

• Adult ADHD is common in individuals with severe obesity undergoing bariatric procedures.
• Further research should examine the impact of adult ADHD on post-bariatric surgery weight loss outcomes.
• Investigating the causal relationship between adult ADHD and obesity is warranted.