ADHD Prevalence in Turkish Preschoolers: Comorbidity and Associated Factors

Ömer Başay1, Ahmet Büber1, Hande Şenol2

  • 1School of Medicine, Habip Kızıltaş Psychiatry Hospital, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Pamukkale University, Pamukkale/Denizli, Türkiye.

Insights

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects 9.3% of Turkish preschoolers when impairment is considered. Younger parental age was linked to higher ADHD risk in this study.

Area of Science:

  • Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
  • Developmental Psychology
  • Pediatric Neurology

Background:

  • Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder impacting children globally.
  • Understanding ADHD prevalence and characteristics in diverse populations, such as Turkish preschoolers, is crucial for targeted interventions.
  • Previous research on ADHD in Turkish preschool-aged children is limited, necessitating further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence and subtypes of ADHD in Turkish preschool children.
  • To identify factors associated with ADHD in this age group.
  • To provide data for early detection and intervention strategies.

Main Methods:

  • A two-stage cross-sectional study design was employed.
  • Screening was conducted using parent and teacher forms of the Turgay DSM-IV Disruptive Disorders Screening and Rating Scale.
  • Diagnostic evaluation for screen-positive children utilized the K-SADS-PL (Kiddie Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia-Present and Lifetime Version).

Main Results:

  • The prevalence of ADHD was 9.3% with impairment criteria and 13.8% without.
  • The combined subtype of ADHD was the most common presentation.
  • Anxiety disorder was the most frequent comorbidity, and younger maternal/paternal ages were associated with increased ADHD likelihood.

Conclusions:

  • ADHD is a significant concern among Turkish preschool children, with a notable prevalence.
  • The combined subtype and comorbid anxiety disorders are key features in this population.
  • Early identification and intervention are essential, considering the association with parental age.

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