PREVALENCE OF ATTENTION DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER AMONG PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN IN DEHRADUN, UTTARAKHAND, INDIA

MRINALINI SABHARWAL, DR. GARIMA SINGH, DR. MOHAN DHYANI

Background: The neurodevelopment disorder known as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is typified by impulsivity, hyperactivity, and inattention. It affects the day to day working of an individual. Despite being a well- known illness, its incidence in India is still unknown. The aim of this study is (1) to determine the overall prevalence of ADHD among primary school children in Dehradun. (2) To assess the gender difference in the prevalence of ADHD among children. (3) To assess the ADHD prevalence among the children of semi government and private schools in reference to Dehradun.

Methods: It is a cross sectional study, conducted on 407 children (aged 5-12 years), from various semi government and private schools located in Sahaspur Block in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. The research was conducted after taking consent from the parents. The data was collected using the ADHD DSM-5 Checklist. The data was analyzed using Excel sheet and SPSS software.

Results: Out of 407, 58 students (14.25%) were diagnosed with ADHD, 85 children (20.88%) scored 6 or more items on the inattentive scale, while 53 children (13.02%) scored 6 or more items on the hyperactive/impulsive scale. Prevalence of ADHD in boys (16.67%) were found to be more than the girls (10.06%). Inattentive symptoms were more frequent in boys (23.64%) than in girls (16.10%). Hyperactivity/Impulsivity were also higher in boys (13.95%) than girls (11.40%). While the prevalence of ADHD in children from semi-government school (46.80%) was marked higher than the prevalence of ADHD in children from private schools (14.25%). Inattentive type was found to be 59.57% in semi- government schools, while it was 15.83% in private schools. Hyperactivity/Impulsivity (36.02%) was higher in semi-government schools than the private schools (10.00%).

Conclusion: Children with ADHD often struggle with inattention, poor concentration, forgetfulness, disorganized behavior, and frequently misplacing things in their daily lives. Identifying the condition early can make a significant difference in helping them manage these challenges more effectively. This study also highlights the importance of raising awareness about ADHD among teachers and parents, as their understanding is crucial for timely and appropriate intervention.