The prevalence of ADHD has been growing steadily over the years, with the United States leading with about 8.1% of children diagnosed with ADHD. In Singapore, the rate is estimated to be 5%. At the same time, Poland and Iraq have some of the lowest rates, at 0.3% and 0.1%, respectively.

 

Unfortunately, these statistics do not take into account undiagnosed children. Some do not get a proper diagnosis until they grow older.

 

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects children and lasts through adulthood. Unfortunately, scientists are yet to pinpoint the exact cause of ADHD because the possible causes vary from person to person.

 

However, after looking at risk factors, scientists believe that genetic factors are partially responsible.

 

Other causes of ADHD include;

 

• Environmental risks, such as exposure to lead. This can be during pregnancy or when the child is very young.
• Tobacco use during pregnancy.
• Alcohol abuse during pregnancy.
• Premature birth.
• Low birth weight.

 

Some people have claimed that excessive sugar consumption, watching too much television, and poor parenting can cause ADHD. However, there is no evidence indicating this is true. However, some of these may trigger some of the symptoms and even make them worse, but they don’t cause ADHD.

 

ADHD And Its Connection With Genetics

 

After decades of attempting to find evidence of the cause of ADHD in children, scientists have zeroed in on genetics as the most probable cause. However, this is not conclusive. Some scientists have gone further to link the cause to fathers because boys are more affected than girls.

 

When carrying out tests to confirm if the child has ADHD, some doctors go the extra mile to see if one of the parents, especially the father, has undiagnosed ADHD. Some of the symptoms of ADHD in adults include;

 

• Changing activities prematurely
• Forgetfulness
• Poor time management
• Disorganization
• Inattention

 

The symptoms of ADHD manifest themselves differently in adults. These symptoms in parents may explain ADHD in children.

 

Types of ADHD

 

While the causes of ADHD remain unknown, it is much easier for doctors to identify the type of ADHD in children. ADHD falls under three main categories, and it is easier to determine where a child with ADHD falls because of the symptoms they exhibit.

 

• Impulsive or hyperactive ADHD. Hyperactive behaviours are more common in this type of ADHD. Rarely do these children exhibit signs of inattention.

 

• Inattentive and distractible ADHD. Inattention and distractibility are the main symptoms. Children with this type of ADHD are not hyperactive.

 

• ADHD combined. This is the most common type characterized by impulsiveness, hyperactivity, and inattention.

 

Inattention.	Impulsivity.	Hyperactivity.
Short attention span. Forgetfulness. Poor organizational skills. Failure to listen keenly. Poor study skills.	Constantly interrupts others. Experiences difficulty waiting their turn. Always on the move to the next activity. Blurts out answers in class. Takes risks without thinking of the consequences.	Forgetfulness. Talks excessively. Difficulty performing activities that require them to remain quiet. Fidgets a lot. Constantly in motion.

Symptoms of ADHD In Children.

 

ADHD is a little complex, especially when attempting to find the cause. However, the symptoms become increasingly evident as the child grows up. The disease can also be managed to a level where the child leads a productive and comfortable life.