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Review
. 2017;4(3):78-84.
doi: 10.1007/s40474-017-0116-z. Epub 2017 Jul 18.

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Looked-After Children: a Systematic Review of the Literature

Renece Willis  1 , Suyog Dhakras  2 , Samuele Cortese  1   2   3   4
Affiliations
Review

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Looked-After Children: a Systematic Review of the Literature

Renece Willis et al. Curr Dev Disord Rep. 2017.

Abstract

Purpose of review: To systematically review the literature on the prevalence and pharmacological treatment of ADHD in looked-after children (LAC).

Recent findings: LAC are a very challenging population from a clinical and psychosocial standpoint, with higher mental health needs compared to non LAC. To date, no systematic review on the prevalence of ADHD, and its treatment, in LAC is available.

Summary: We searched Pubmed, PsycInfo EMBASE + EMBASE CLASSIC, OVID Medline and Web of Science up to November 9 th, 2016. We found 24 papers meeting our criteria. The vast majority of the retained studies are from the USA and show rates of ADHD and of its pharmacological treatment substantially higher in LAC than those reported in national estimates. Future studies from countries other than the USA, aiming to understand the most cost-effective strategies, in the short as well as long term, to manage symptoms of ADHD in LAC are needed.

Keywords: ADHD; Looked-after children; Psychostimulants.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of Interest

The authors declare that they have no competing interests.

Human and Animal Rights and Informed Consent

This article does not contain any studies with human or animal subjects performed by any of the authors.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
PRISMA flowchart illustrating study selection process
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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