Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Among Children Aged 5–17 Years in the United States, 1998–2009

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common
mental health disorders of childhood (1). The symptoms of ADHD (inattention,
impulsive behavior, and hyperactivity) begin in childhood and often persist
into adulthood. These symptoms frequently lead to functional impairment in
academic, family, and social settings (2,3). The causes and risk factors for
ADHD are unknown, but genetic factors likely play a role (4). Diagnosis
of ADHD involves several steps, including a medical exam; a checklist
for rating ADHD symptoms based on reports from parents, teachers, and
sometimes the child; and an evaluation for coexisting conditions (5). Recent
national surveys have documented an increase in the prevalence of ADHD
during the past decade (6,7). This report presents recent trends in prevalence
and differences between population subgroups of children aged 5–17 years.