Detailed contribution information
| Contribution title | 3480 - Changes in the profile of children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in the university hospital of Monastir (Tunisia) |
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| Contribution code | PS03-44 (P) |
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| Form of presentation | Poster |
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| Abstract |
INTRODUCTION: Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most common behavioral childhood disorder and it has a global prevalence about 3.4 to 7.1 %. In fact, it is considered as a problem of public health because of its frequency and impact. OBJECTIVE: The aim of our study is to assess the clinical and sociodemographic evolution in children with ADHD, attending the child and adolescent psychiatric unit of the university hospital of Monastir in Tunisia. METHOD: It is a retrospective descriptive study based on medical records of outpatients diagnosed with ADHD and followed between January 2011 and December 2015 in the child and adolescent psychiatry unit of the university hospital of Monastir in Tunisia. The diagnosis of ADHD was based on DSM IV criteria and the teachers and Parents Connors rating scales. RESULTS: Our population includes 157 outpatients aged between 4 and 16 years (with a mean age of 9.1 years). Mean age at the initial consultation has significally decreased from 11.71 years in 2011, to 8.53 years in 2013 and 8 years in 2015. The proportion of ADHD outpatients increased from 3.13% in 2011 to 6.69% in 2015. Mixed-type of ADHD was the more prevalent but we found that inattention prevalent-type was more attributed in recent years. The prevalence of ADHD was significantly higher in boys than in girls (sex ratio= 0.14).However, we noticed more girls with ADHD in 2015 (19.1% of cases) than in 2011 (4.47% of cases).The main reasons for attending the unit were behavioral disorders and study difficulties. Almost all of the outpatients received behavior therapy but only 33.11% were treated with medication. The prescription of Methylphenidate has significally increased (from 5.73% in 2011, 7% in 2013 and 8.28% in 2015). CONCLUSION: ADHD is a common condition among children and youth in Tunisia.The percentage of new diagnosis of ADHD continues to increase. Prescribing medication is also increasing. To determine the causes of this augmentation, further researches are required. |