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Sanguineti C, Nisticò V, Folatti I, Santangelo G, Faggioli R, Bertani A, Gambini O, Demartini B. Toward an Increased Attention on ADHD Symptoms and Traits in Young Adults: Prevalence Data From Screening Tools in a Psychiatric Outpatient Clinic. J Atten Disord 2024; 28:151-160. [PMID: 37919945 DOI: 10.1177/10870547231201954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE to analyze the prevalence of ADHD symptoms and traits in a heterogeneous clinical psychiatric sample of young adults (aged 18-24 years old), who referred to a specialized outpatient clinic for various psychiatric and psychological disturbances. METHOD 259 participants completed three validated self-report screening questionnaires for ADHD: the Wender Utah Rating Scale (WURS), the Adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Self-Report Screening Scale for DSM-5 (ASRS-5), and the Conners' adult ADHD rating scale (CAARS). RESULTS 12.4% of our sample scored above the cut-off at both the WURS and the ASRS-5 and was considered at risk of ADHD. CONCLUSION the prevalence rate in our sample is higher than the one found in the adult general population (6.76%), and in the lower range of the one found in the adult clinical population (6.9%-38.8%). The potential role of sociodemographic (age, sex, gender identity, and employment) and comorbidity factors is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Sanguineti
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy
| | - Veronica Nisticò
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy
- Dipartimento di Psicologia, Università degli Studi di Milano-Bicocca, Italy
- Aldo Ravelli" Research Center for Neurotechnology and Experimental Brain Therapeutics, University of Milan, Italy
| | - Irene Folatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy
| | - Giulia Santangelo
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy
| | - Raffaella Faggioli
- Unità di Psichiatria 51 e 52, Presidio San Paolo, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, Milano, Italy
| | - Angelo Bertani
- Unità di Psichiatria 51 e 52, Presidio San Paolo, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, Milano, Italy
| | - Orsola Gambini
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy
- Aldo Ravelli" Research Center for Neurotechnology and Experimental Brain Therapeutics, University of Milan, Italy
- Unità di Psichiatria 51 e 52, Presidio San Paolo, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, Milano, Italy
| | - Benedetta Demartini
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy
- Aldo Ravelli" Research Center for Neurotechnology and Experimental Brain Therapeutics, University of Milan, Italy
- Unità di Psichiatria 51 e 52, Presidio San Paolo, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, Milano, Italy
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Adamis D, Fox N, de M de Camargo APP, Saleem F, Gavin B, McNicholas F. Prevalence of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in an adult mental health service in the Republic of Ireland. Int J Psychiatry Med 2023; 58:130-144. [PMID: 35654762 DOI: 10.1177/00912174221106826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is well recognised in childhood. However, recognition that it commonly persists into adulthood is relatively recent. This study is the 2nd phase of a two-phase epidemiological investigation of the prevalence of adult ADHD in outpatients in Ireland. METHOD In phase-1, 634 participants were screened with Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) and Wender Utah Rating Scale (WURS). Those scoring positive in both scales have been invited to participate in the 2nd phase where the scales Conners' Adult ADHD Diagnostic Interview (CAADID), Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI), and Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) were administered, plus clinical evaluation based in DSM-5. RESULTS 131 were eligible, 110 participated (84.0%). Using the CAADID (DSM-IV criteria) 71 were diagnosed with ADHD. Projecting to the total sample (N = 634) the prevalence was 13.25%, CI:95%:10.71-16.14. Converting the DSM-IV criteria to DSM-5, 89 had ADHD (prevalence:16.72%, CI: 13.9-19.86). Using clinical evaluation, 86 were diagnosed with ADHD (prevalence:16.09%, CI:13.31-19.18). Only 3 cases were diagnosed before with ADHD. Comorbidity was higher in those with ADHD, with the median number of additional diagnoses 2 (min 0 max 8, IQR 3) Also, they had significantly higher rates of depression and recurred depression. Agreement between DSM-IV and DSM-5 was high (rho = 0.90, p < .0001). CONCLUSIONS High rates of undiagnosed ADHD were found to be present among AMHS attendees. Clinicians in AMHS need to be knowledgeable and alert to possible ADHD among their caseloads, and offer appropriate intervention. Interventions are urgently required to increase the detection and treatment of adult ADHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Adamis
- School of Medicine and Medical Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland.,603698Sligo Mental Health Services, Sligo, Ireland.,Research and Academic Institute of Athens, Greece
| | - Naoimh Fox
- 603698Sligo Mental Health Services, Sligo, Ireland.,Adult mental health in Newcastle upon Tyne, Newcastle, UK
| | - Ana Paula P de M de Camargo
- 603698Sligo Mental Health Services, Sligo, Ireland.,Professor in Psychology Dublin Business School, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Blánaid Gavin
- School of Medicine and Medical Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Fiona McNicholas
- School of Medicine and Medical Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland.,CHI, Crumlin, Lucena SJOG, Dublin, Ireland
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Adamis D, Flynn C, Wrigley M, Gavin B, McNicholas F. ADHD in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Prevalence Studies in Outpatient Psychiatric Clinics. J Atten Disord 2022; 26:1523-1534. [PMID: 35373645 DOI: 10.1177/10870547221085503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Systematic review and meta-analysis to estimate the pooled prevalence of ADHD in adult attendees of outpatient mental health clinics and to investigate factors influencing prevalence rates. METHODS The following were extracted: demographics, design of the study (screening only or two-phase), scales/criteria for diagnosis of ADHD, number of ADHD, and non-ADHD participants. RESULTS The pooled prevalence of ADHD from screening studies (n = 9) was 26.7%, (95% CI [17.2-37.4]), ADHD = 1727, No ADHD = 3,578. From studies employing a two-stage design (n = 5), prevalence was 14.61%, CI [10.39-19.41], ADHD = 561, No ADHD = 3,578. Age and gender did not have any significant effect on the estimated prevalence. By contrast exclusion of psychotic disorders lowers prevalence. The screening scale used also influence prevalence rates. CONCLUSION Meta-analysis shows high rates of adult ADHD among psychiatric outpatient clinics. Applying DSM-5 criteria increased prevalence rates. More methodologically robust studies, using two-stage design, need to be conducted to help assist in service planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Adamis
- Sligo Mental Health Services, Ireland.,University College Dublin, Ireland.,Research and Academic Institute of Athens, Greece
| | | | - Margo Wrigley
- National Clinical Programme for Adult ADHD, Dublin, Ireland
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Anbarasan D, Safyer G, Adler LA. Updates in Pharmacologic Strategies in Adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. Child Adolesc Psychiatr Clin N Am 2022; 31:553-568. [PMID: 35697401 DOI: 10.1016/j.chc.2022.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) significantly worsens quality of life and long-term functional outcomes in adults. Individual impairments in adults with ADHD can be further contextualized within considerable costs to society at large. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved stimulants and nonstimulant medications can significantly improve ADHD symptoms in adults. In the past 2 decades, the United States FDA has expanded approval of pharmacotherapeutic options for adult ADHD. However, limitations still persist in available psychotropics for certain patient populations such as those with comorbid substance use or cardiovascular illness. Clinicians therefore must appreciate several ongoing investigations into medications with unique mechanisms of action. This article reviews the current FDA approved and emerging medication options while providing guidelines for pharmacologic management of adult ADHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepti Anbarasan
- Department of Neurology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, One Park Avenue, 8th Floor, New York, NY 10016, USA; Department of Psychiatry, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, One Park Avenue, 8th Floor, New York, NY 10016, USA.
| | - Gabriella Safyer
- Department of Psychiatry, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, One Park Avenue, 8th Floor, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Lenard A Adler
- Department of Psychiatry, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, One Park Avenue, 8th Floor, New York, NY 10016, USA; Department of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, One Park Avenue, 8th Floor, New York, NY 10016, USA
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Screening for ADHD Symptoms among Criminal Offenders: Exploring the Association with Clinical Features. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10020180. [PMID: 35206795 PMCID: PMC8872480 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10020180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a disabling disorder. High rates of ADHD have been consistently reported among prisoners. The main objectives were (1) to estimate the prevalence of ADHD symptoms in a sample of male inmates and (2) to investigate the relationship between ADHD symptoms and socio-demographic/clinical features. According to the high prevalence of childhood trauma among inmates, we assessed whether exposition to childhood trauma can be related to the presence of ADHD symptoms. Methods: A total of 159 male prisoners admitted to Monza prison between January 2020 and June 2021 were included. Both Wender Utah ADHD rating scale and adult ADHD self-report scale were administered to assess ADHD symptoms. Moreover, inmates completed the childhood trauma questionnaire. Results: Data were available for 108 inmates. Thirty-five prisoners (32.4%) were found on screening to meet the criteria for symptoms of ADHD. Cocaine use disorder, prescription of mood stabilizers and a history of emotional abuse significantly increased the likelihood of having clinically significant ADHD symptoms. Furthermore, patients who experienced physical neglect resulted in meeting the criteria for ADHD symptoms. Conclusions: ADHD symptoms are widespread among inmates and are associated with specific risk factors. Screening for ADHD should be done to provide appropriate intervention strategies.
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Hanley C, Saleem F, Graffeo I, McCarthy G, Gavin B, McNicholas F, Adamis D. Association of Wender Utah Rating Scale (WURS)-61 items with clinical psychiatric diagnosis in adulthood. Ir J Med Sci 2021; 191:327-335. [PMID: 33665779 DOI: 10.1007/s11845-021-02574-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Wender Utah Rating Scale (WURS) is a widely used retrospective scale in adults presenting for ADHD evaluations which features items relating to childhood symptoms. AIMS The aim of this study is to establish if certain childhood symptoms (including ADHD) as identified by the WURS-61 are associated with specific mental health disorders in adulthood. METHODS Case-control study of N=630 attending Adult Mental Health Services (AMHS) and a control group without mental disorders (N=96). RESULTS The mean age of the participants was 39.81 (SD 12.94) of which 387 (53.3%) were females. There were no significant differences between cases and controls in terms of age (t= 1.829, df 724, p=.068) and gender (x2=1.123, df 1, p=.289). Exploratory factor analysis of WURS-61 reveals 5 factors. Using factor scores and after cross-tabulation, we found that: The presence of childhood impulsivity, emotional lability and distress in addition to inattention/disorganisation were significantly associated with adult ADHD diagnosis (F90). WURS items which suggests childhood conduct problems were associated with a number of adult diagnoses, when present either on its own (psychoactive substance use, or when present in combination with childhood impulsivity, emotional lability and distress (personality disorders). CONCLUSION There is an association between certain childhood behaviours and risk for later development of personality disorders, and psychoactive substance use. There is overlap of childhood symptoms to those who later diagnosed in adulthood with ADHD, personality disorders, and substance abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cliodhna Hanley
- Sligo Mental Health Services, Clarion Rd, Sligo, Ireland.,University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Faisal Saleem
- Sligo Mental Health Services, Clarion Rd, Sligo, Ireland
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review paper aims to update readers on the importance of screening for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults and to provide a primer on how best to screen and diagnose this condition in an efficient and reliable manner. RECENT FINDINGS The ASRS Screening Scale was updated in 2017 to reflect the changes made to identify ADHD based on the DSM-5 criteria and to reflect our understanding that adult ADHD is characterized by executive functioning deficits that are not explicitly reflected in the DSM-5 criteria. The use of the ASRS Screening Scale improves the clinician's ability to rapidly identify adult patients who require a comprehensive evaluation to diagnose ADHD and/or other comorbid psychiatric conditions. The scale has been validated for use in both the general population and in the ADHD specialty treatment population, which supports its use by both general clinicians and mental health clinicians. Identification of adult ADHD is critical due to the profound personal, familial, and societal costs associated with this condition.
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Pawaskar M, Fridman M, Grebla R, Madhoo M. Comparison of Quality of Life, Productivity, Functioning and Self-Esteem in Adults Diagnosed With ADHD and With Symptomatic ADHD. J Atten Disord 2020; 24:136-144. [PMID: 31043096 PMCID: PMC6935829 DOI: 10.1177/1087054719841129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Objective: Investigate the association between diagnosis and outcomes in adults with symptoms of ADHD. Method: The Validate Attitudes and Lifestyle Issues in Depression, ADHD and Troubles with Eating (VALIDATE) study collected sociodemographic and clinical characteristics data, and responses from validated questionnaires on health-related quality of life (HRQoL), work productivity, functioning, and self-esteem. ADHD-diagnosed respondents (n = 444) were matched with respondents with symptomatic ADHD (n = 1,055) within the same sex-by-age group using propensity score matching. Effects of ADHD diagnosis on each outcome were adjusted for covariates that remained imbalanced after matching, using generalized mixed models. Results: After matching, symptomatic respondents (n = 867) had worse outcomes than ADHD-diagnosed respondents (n = 436), as measured by the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment: General Health questionnaire and Sheehan Disability Scale (p < .001). ADHD-diagnosed respondents had better mean EuroQol five-dimensional five-level (EQ-5D-5L) scores and Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale scores than symptomatic respondents (p < .001). Conclusion: ADHD-diagnosed individuals are more likely to experience better functional performance, work-related productivity, HRQoL, and self-esteem than individuals with symptomatic ADHD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Moshe Fridman
- AMF Consulting, Inc., Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Moshe Fridman, AMF Consulting, Inc., 846 S. Citrus Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90036, USA.
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Association of symptoms of attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder and impulsive-aggression with severity of suicidal behavior in adult attempters. Sci Rep 2019; 9:4593. [PMID: 30872743 PMCID: PMC6418227 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-41046-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2018] [Accepted: 02/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Literature emphasizes the relationship between attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and suicidal behavior (SB). However, the link between ADHD and the severity of SB is yet to be determined. We investigated the association between a probable diagnosis of ADHD and the severity of SB in 539 hospitalized suicide attempters, and determined the role of comorbid psychiatric diagnoses. The severity of SB was defined as the number of suicide attempts, age at first suicide attempt, seriousness and violence of suicide attempts. A diagnosis of probable adult ADHD (probable ADHD) was defined as the presence of both current ADHD symptoms and ADHD symptoms in childhood. We evaluated the combined effect of high impulsive-aggression levels and probable ADHD. Probable ADHD was not associated with early or frequent suicide attempts after adjustment for psychiatric disorders and treatment intake. High levels of impulsive-aggression increased the risk of an early suicide attempt, particularly in patients with ADHD symptoms, and independently of other clinical factors. The association between serious suicide attempts and probable ADHD remained significant after adjustment. Although ADHD is involved in suicidal vulnerability, psychiatric comorbidities and impulsive-aggression appear to largely explain the severity of SB in adult attempters with ADHD symptoms.
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