Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Associated Factors Among First-Year Elementary School Students

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Mental Health
• Neurodevelopmental Disorders
• Public Health Research

Background:

• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder in children.
• Early identification and intervention are crucial for managing ADHD symptoms and improving outcomes.
• Understanding ADHD prevalence and risk factors in diverse populations is essential for targeted public health strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of ADHD symptoms among first-grade pupils in an urban Vietnamese setting.
• To identify significant risk factors associated with ADHD in this population.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 525 first-grade pupils (ages 6-7) in four randomly selected primary schools.
• Data collected from parents/caregivers and teachers using Vanderbilt Assessment Scales.
• Screening for ADHD symptoms and associated risk factors.

Main Results:

• The overall prevalence of ADHD symptoms was 4.6% (boys: 6.5%; girls: 2.1%), with the combined type being most common (3.4%).
• Teacher ratings indicated a higher prevalence than parent ratings, with good inter-rater agreement (κ > 0.6).
• Significant risk factors included male gender, a first-degree relative with ADHD, in-utero tobacco smoke exposure, and prenatal alcohol consumption.

Conclusions:

• ADHD screening is vital for elementary school pupils, especially those with a family history.
• Public health initiatives should focus on reducing prenatal exposure to smoking and alcohol to mitigate ADHD risks.
• Further research into ADHD in Vietnamese children can inform culturally specific interventions.