U.K. Prevalence Of ADHD Estimated At 5%

The prevalence of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adolescents in the United Kingdom (U.K.) is estimated at 5%. There is no evidence that ADHD is over-diagnosed in the U.K.; according to a recent study, it may be under-diagnosed.

Under-diagnosis, according to the study, could be the result of misdiagnosis following low-quality assessments, poor adherence to national guidance, or inappropriate differential diagnosis.

Across countries, when standardized ADHD diagnostic criteria are consistently applied, prevalence rates are consistent and estimated at about 5.4%, the study stated. Geographic variations primarily reflect differences in diagnostic . . .