Affiliations: Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, University
of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Port Harcourt, Nigeria
Note: [] Correspondence: Dr. Angela Ine Frank-Briggs, %Senior Lecturer
and Consultant Pediatrician, Department of Pediatrics and Child Health,
University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Port Harcourt, Nigeria. Tel.:
+234 8033092885; E-mail: afrankbriggs@yahoo.com
Abstract: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD or AD/HD) is a
neurobehavioral developmental disorder, primarily characterized by the
co-existence of attention problems and hyperactivity. It affects about 3 to
5% of children globally, with symptoms starting before 7 yr of age and in
about 50% of cases continuing into adulthood. It is a source of concern to
the clinicians as it is often comorbid with other mental disorders,
particularly anxiety, conduct disorder, depression, epilepsy and learning
disabilities. The aim of this review is to draw close attention to the
disorder, highlight its causes, features and the challenges in management. Data
was sourced from literature in Medline publications, World Health Organization
and other medical journals. ADHD affects all races, ethnic groups and
socioeconomic levels, the cause is unknown and there is no cure for it.
Management is multidisciplinary including behavioral therapy, psychotherapy and
drug treatment. There is dearth of information about ADHD in our environment
but the disorder is not uncommon. The combined problems of malaria,
malnutrition, pneumonia, human immunodeficiency virus and acquired immune
deficiency syndrome and other infectious illnesses may be masking emphasis on
this neurodevelopmental condition. ADHD is a common neurodevelopmental disorder
worldwide. Management of the condition is challenging. Awareness of the general
populace, skills in the diagnosis and optimal management are currently low in
developing countries like Nigeria. There is need for improvement in these areas.
