Factors Associated with Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder in School-Age Thai Children

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the associated factors in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children. Materials and Methods: The present study was a cross-sectional case-control study. Two hundred thirteen children aged 5 to 12 years were divided into two groups with 71 patients with ADHD and 142 pediatric patients without ADHD. Results: The mean age of participants in the case and control groups was 8.80±1.82 and 7.94±2.20 years, respectively. Notably, several factors exhibited significant differences between the group diagnosed with ADHD and the control group. These included male gender (AOR 5.79, 95% CI 2.54 to 13.2), age categories 7 to 9 years (AOR 4.38, 95% CI 1.61 to 11.86) and 10 to 12 years (AOR 2.89, 95% CI 1.01 to 8.30), screen time exceeding two hours daily (AOR 2.47, 95% CI: 1.05 to 5.83), and a family history of ADHD (AOR 15.66, 95% CI 1.29 to 190.83). Conclusion: The findings of the present study offer significant insights into the factors influencing ADHD. These factors are categorized into inherent characteristics, such as male gender, certain age groups, family history of ADHD, and behavioral-related factors. Among the behavioral factors, limiting screen time emerges as a key actionable strategy. Implementing measures to limit screen time and promoting activities that foster improved focus and concentration could potentially mitigate the risk of ADHD. Keywords: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder; Associated factors; Breast feeding; Family history; Screen-time