Mapping ADHD and its predictors : Perspicacity from a Population- Based Study in Northern Kerala ,India

Abstract

Background: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent neurodevelopmental condition that typically manifests during early childhood and may persist to  adolescence and adulthood.Childhood ADHD can predispose affected individuals to a spectrum of difficulties including impaired social functioning, academic underachievement and diminished self-worth.The study aims to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors of ADHD among school going children in Kozhikode District. Methodology: A school based cross sectional study was conducted in three government schools in Kozhikode district from 8th August 2023-11th August 2025 among 266 school going children aged between 6 to 12 years. Results: In the current study, the overall prevalence of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) was identified as 7.1%. Among the subtypes, the inattentive type emerged as the most dominant (53%). This was followed by the hyperactive subtype, representing 26%, while the combined form constituted the remaining 21% of cases. Boys (57.8%) exhibited a slightly higher prevalence of ADHD compared to girls, and younger age groups (6-8) years were more commonly affected. High screen time emerged as a significant risk factor for ADHD, increasing the likelihood by 2.23 times. Prevalence in the first school studied was 6.6%, second school was 14.5%, and in the third school was found to be 4.3%. Among the study subjects 0.8% had not completed their immunization up to their age. Conclusion: The prevalence of ADHD was 7.1% in the present study. Policy makers should emphasize on implementation of uniform screening program for ADHD in every school and massive periodic public awareness program should be attempted for children to have a healthy future. The results of this study underscore the critical necessity for implementing targeted interventions aimed at mitigating risk factors associated with ADHD