Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: Advances in Epidemiology, Pathogenesis, and Neurobiology

Abstract

Introduction. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects approximately 5-7% of children and adolescents and persists in a significant number of cases into adulthood, with an estimated prevalence of 2.5% in adults globally. The impact goes far beyond school or work performance; it is associated with an increased risk of accidents, risky behaviors, comorbid disorders such as anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, and a significant reduction in quality of life. Methods. A search was conducted in the databases SciELO, Scopus, PubMed/MedLine, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, as well as Clinical Keys services. The search terms for the search formulation were "ADHD", "Attention Deficit Disorder", "Hyperactivity", "depression", "autism spectrum", "anxiety", as well as their translations into English. Results. The reported prevalence of ADHD in children ranges from 2 to 18 percent depending on the diagnostic criteria and the population studied. The prevalence in school-aged children is estimated to be between 9 and 15 percent, making it one of the most common childhood disorders. Possible etiological factors include comorbid disorders, oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, anxiety disorder, depression, developmental coordination disorder, autism spectrum disorder, and sleep disorders. Conclusion: ADHD constitutes a complex neurodevelopmental condition whose impact transcends clinical boundaries to become a multifaceted challenge for public health, neuroscience, and social justice.