[Associations between attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and accident proneness in children and adolescents]

Introduction: In children and adolescents with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder the incidence of accidental injuries is significantly higher than in the general population. The majority of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder accident victims have not been diagnosed before and are not receiving any treatment though attention deficit hyperactivity disorder medications have a protective effect on the risk of unintentional injuries. Objective: The relationship between attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and increased accidental rates was investigated in a Hungarian pediatric population sample of emergency trauma surgery patients. Method: Questionnaires completed by parents were used to record the circumstances and characteristics of the accident, screening for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and any associated emotional and behavioral difficulties. For our analysis, we were able to use data from 115 of the 126 completed questionnaires received. Results: The incidence rate of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in our sample was above population rate: 13.9% of our total sample qualified for being at risk for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder based on the presence of clinical symptoms whereas 19.1% were identified based on a less strict approach using total scores. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder inattentive symptoms were the most prominent. Difference between attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and non-attention deficit hyperactivity disorder groups was detected on the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire emotional and conduct problems and hyperactivity subscales and oppositional symptoms. Conclusion: It is hoped that our research will contribute to the incorporation of routine screening for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder into the practice of pediatric trauma/emergency care in Hungary with the aim of accident prevention. Orv Hetil. 2025; 166(14): 543–548.