Clinical study on the intervention effect of digital therapy on children with attention deficit hyperactivity

Sheng Huang1, Tianhui Zhang2, Qing Lu1

  • 1Department of Neurology, Wuhan Children's Hospital Affiliated to Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430019, Hubei, China.

Scientific Reports
|October 10, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Digital therapy using "MindPro1" software significantly improved attention in children with ADHD. Parents reported high acceptance and compliance, with minimal, mild side effects, indicating a safe and effective treatment option.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Digital Therapeutics
  • Behavioral Health

Background:

  • Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) significantly impacts children's development and learning.
  • Traditional ADHD treatments may have limitations, necessitating exploration of novel therapeutic approaches.
  • Digital interventions offer a promising avenue for accessible and engaging ADHD management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the "MindPro1" digital therapy for children aged 6-12 with ADHD.
  • To assess the impact of the intervention on attention-related variables using standardized tests.
  • To determine parent acceptance and compliance rates with the digital therapy.

Main Methods:

  • A 4-week intervention study involving 52 children (6-12 years) diagnosed with ADHD.
  • Utilized "MindPro1" attention training software as an adjunct to existing stable treatments.
  • Assessed changes in attention using the Test of Attention Variables (TOVA) and SNAP-IV Parent scale pre- and post-intervention.

Main Results:

  • Significant improvements observed in SNAP-IV parent scores (P < 0.001) and TOVA-ACS scores (P < 0.05).
  • The intervention demonstrated a response rate exceeding 30% improvement on the SNAP-IV scale.
  • Parent acceptance rate was 100% with an average compliance rate of 95%.

Conclusions:

  • The "MindPro1" digital therapy is effective in improving attention in children with ADHD.
  • The intervention is safe, well-tolerated, and highly accepted by parents.
  • Digital therapeutics represent a valuable addition to the ADHD treatment landscape.

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