Attention deficit and hyperactive disorder among primary school children in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State: prevalence and predictive factors
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Abstract
Background: Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurobehavioral disorder that affects children. A consistent pattern of inattention and hyperactivity or impulsiveness, or both, is the hallmark. These behaviours are typically considered age-inappropriate. Risk factors for ADHD are numerous, including prematurity, low birth weight and neurologic factors. This study aims to determine the prevalence and predictors of ADHD among primary school children in Rivers State.
Methods: A cross-sectional analytic study was conducted in 2025 among pupils aged 6-12 years. A self-administered questionnaire and the Vanderbilt ADHD Diagnostic Rating Scale (VADRS) were used as study tools. Data were analysed with SPSS version 25.
Results: Of the 396 subjects, 39 (9.8%) were identified with ADHD using the teacher version VADRS, whereas the prevalence was 14 (3.5%) using the parent version. More males, 26 (12.7%), had ADHD compared to 13 (6.8%) females. The sex difference in prevalence was significant (p = 0.005). The inattentive subtype was more common (56.4%), with males under 10 years more affected. Male sex (OR=2.01; p=0.05; 95% CI: 1.00–4.04), family history of ADHD (OR=8.05; p=0.0004; 95% CI: 2.07-41.35), preterm delivery, low birth weight, and delivery outside a health facility were significant predictors of ADHD.
Conclusion: The prevalence of ADHD is increasing in tandem with the global trend. In our environment, positive family history, prematurity, low birth weight and deliveries in places with unskilled birth attendance are associated with higher risks of ADHD. There is a need to create awareness among the populace to reduce the preventable risk factors.
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