Prevalence of ADHD Among Students of Zahedan University of Medical Science in Iran

authors:

avatar Monire Mosalanejad 1 , avatar Leili Mosalanejad 2 , * , avatar Kobra Lashkarpour 3

General Practitioner, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
Assistant Professor, Department of Mental Health, School of Nursing and Paramedical, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran. Address: Main Campus, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Motahari Street, Jahrom, Iran
Assistant Professor, Department of Psychiatry, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
Iranian Journal of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences: Vol.7, issue 2; 83-90
published online: December 30, 2013
article type: Original Article
received: October 23, 2011
revised: November 16, 2011
accepted: May 28, 2012

how to cite: Mosalanejad M, Mosalanejad L, Lashkarpour K. Prevalence of ADHD Among Students of Zahedan University of Medical Science in Iran. Iran J Psychiatry Behav Sci. 2013;7(2): 83-90. 

Abstract

Objective: Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common mental disorder in adults that was under-diagnosed until recently. Due to probable consequences of ADHD such as occupational and educational dysfunctions and substance use, this disorder is becoming more and more of a concern. This study aimed to investigate ADHD symptoms among students of Zahedan University of medical sciences, Iran.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed in Zahedan University of Medical Sciences from 2008 to 2009. Our sample included 1500 individuals who were chosen using simple sampling method. Considering the goal of the investigation, two questionnaires were distributed among students including demographic information form and the Conners' Adult ADHD Rating Scales–Self Report (Screening Version, CAARS-S:SV). Data analysis was done using descriptive and analytical statistics in SPSS software.
Results: Out of 1500 questionnaires distributed among students, 913 were completed. 589 students (64.5%) were female and 324 (35.5%) were male. The Mean age of participants was 21.7 ± 3.2 years. ADHD symptoms were defined based on the Conner’s adult test. Based on CAARS-S: SV, inattention/memory, hyperactivity/restlessness, impulsiveness/emotional lability, and problems with self-concept subscale symptoms were found in 107 (11.7%), 109 (12%), 121 (13.2%), and 30 (3.3%) respondents, respectively. These findings were significantly higher than average.
Conclusions: According to our results, it seems that the prevalence of ADHD is high among students. Thus, more screening is required in this population in order to diagnose and treat the disorder earlier and prevent its consequences, such as substance abuse.
Declaration of interest: None.
Clinical Trial Registration: URL: http://www.irct.ir. RCT201106306923N1.
Citation: Mosalanejad M, Mosalanejad L, Lashkarpour K. Prevalence of ADHD among students of Zahedan University of Medical Science in Iran. Iran J Psychiatry Behav Sci 2013; 7(2): 83-90.

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