BMJ 2000;321:975-976 ( 21 October )

Editorials

Evidence and belief in ADHD

Informed decisions on stimulants must be based on studies with good methodology

The first 150 words of the full text of this article appear below.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) generates controversy. Some believe that it does not exist, whereas others see the reluctance of clinicians to diagnose and treat it as denying effective health care to children.1 Epidemiological studies show that 3-5% of children of school age may be classified as having attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.2 No validated diagnostic test exists to confirm the clinical diagnosis.

It is a complex neurodevelopmental constellation of problems rather than a single disorder. The core symptoms are inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. These are also, however, normal behavioural traits present in unaffected children. The extent to which each causes disability varies and should be seen within the context of a child's developmental level. For example, an active 3 year old, impulsive and frequently interrupting of others, differs from a disruptive, unfocused 8 year old who is unable to cope educationally. Yet both may display core symptoms. Also, it is important to . . . [Full text of this article]
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Rapid Responses:

Read all Rapid Responses

Parental (and the child's) views are also important!
Ashok Nathwani
bmj.com, 20 Oct 2000 [Full text]
Evidence and belief in ADHD
Marie France Muir
bmj.com, 4 Nov 2000 [Full text]
Re: Parental (and the child's) views are also important!
Edmund Kingston
bmj.com, 4 Nov 2000 [Full text]
Acknowledge role of parents
Murray Bodin
bmj.com, 6 Nov 2000 [Full text]
The reintroduction of Methylphenidate in Italy needs careful monitoring
Maurizio Bonati
bmj.com, 8 Nov 2000 [Full text]
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