Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder in primary school children of Tabriz, North-West Iran

Abstract

This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), as well as its subtypes, in elementary school children and their demographic characteristics. A random clustered sample of elementary students was selected from schools of Tabriz, North-West Iran. The clinical diagnosis of ADHD was based on DSM-IV-TR criteria using an interview with children who were selected as scoring high on the Conner's teacher rating scale. A total of 30 schools and 1658 students were evaluated. The prevalence rate of clinical ADHD in the elementary students of Tabriz was 9.7%. Only two had been diagnosed previously. The mean age (standard deviation) was 9.39 (1.27) years. ADHD was more common among boys, students of the third level and children with an un-educated mother or father. It was not related to the type of school, age or birth order. Students with ADHD had lower school performance and orderliness reported by the school. Inattentiveness was more common among schoolgirls while the most common subtype was the combined one. Inattentive students had a significantly lower school performance. ADHD is common in elementary schools of this region and is correlated with poor performance. Greater awareness of parents and teachers concerning children at risk is necessary for an early diagnosis.