Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)
PRESS RELEASE: May 23, 2002

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), also known as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), is the most commonly diagnosed behavioral disorder of childhood. It is estimated that 3 to 5% of school aged children are affeced by this disorder. Children with ADD typically display inattentive, hyperactive or impulsive behavior. This disorder can have a negative impact on a child’s social, emotional and academic lives.

ADD is a neurobiological disability. Without proper diagnosis and treatment ADD can lead to school failure, conduct disorder, depression, dysfunctional relationships and depression. Early diagnosis and treatment increases the chances of positive long-term outcomes. The classic ADD symptoms include inattention, distraction, impulsiveness and hyperactivity. Children with ADD often make careless mistakes and do not seem to listen when spoken to directly. They also tend to fidget or squirm when sitting and have difficulty playing quietly.

The causes of ADD are unknown, but children with a family history of ADD seem to be more at risk. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, two to three times more boys than girls are affected by ADD. Some ADD patients begin exhibiting the behavior during infancy. All ADD patients show the behavior tendencies by age 7. There is no blood test or lab test to diagnose ADD. The diagnosis is made based on information collected from a child’s parents, teachers and school officials. A child with ADD shows the same symptoms at home and at school.

ADD is not curable, but can be treated with behavioral therapy, medication, or a combination of the two. Many children are treated successfully with a psychostimulant called Ritalin. The medications can cause some mild side effects, such as difficulty falling asleep, reduced appetite and temporarily slowed growth patterns. However most of these side effects can be controlled by adjusting the dosage.

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