Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

What is ADHD?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a developmental disorder linked to brain function, marked by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Research1 indicates that about 65% of individuals with ADHD continue to have symptoms into adulthood.

How common is ADHD?

Here are the statistics related to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in both global and Hong Kong contexts:

7%

The global prevalence of ADHD among children is as high as 7%

6.4%

The prevalence among children and adolescents is 6.4% in Hong Kong

±210,000

Approximately 210,000 individuals with ADHD in Hong Kong

50,000+

over 50,000 of children and adolescents suffer ADHD

* The above data is for reference only.2-4

Three main symptoms of ADHD

The three main symptoms of ADHD are inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.

1. Inattention
  • Difficulty concentrating and easily distracted
  • Easily influenced by the surrounding environment
  • Appears absent-minded
  • Makes careless mistakes
  • Frequently forgets things
  • Lacks organization in tasks

 

2. Hyperactivity
  • Frequently fidgets or squirms in their seat
  • Difficulty remaining seated; always moving
  • Cannot wait their turn
  • Talks excessively and struggles to control volume

 

3. Impulsivity
  • Weak self-control
  • Talks too much
  • Interrupts others
  • Frequently blurts out answers

Related Assessment

We understand parents' concerns about ADHD in their children. If you notice symptoms, please consult our professional team for early assessment.

Is the child lively 
or do they have ADHD?

Parents should know that a child's restlessness doesn't automatically indicate ADHD. For example, children aged 3 to 5 can concentrate for about 5 minutes, while those in Primary 1 can focus for around 10 minutes. Liveliness is usually normal. If concerns persist, it's best to seek an evaluation.

Related Videos

Explained by psychiatrist, clinical psychologists, registered psychologist, and speech therapist, focusing on characteristics, causes, and strategies for educating children with ADHD.

References:

  1. Agnew-Blais JC, Polanczyk GV, Danese A, Wertz J, Moffitt TE, Arseneault L. Evaluation of the Persistence, Remission, and Emergence of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Young Adulthood. JAMA Psychiatry. 2016 Jul 1;73(7):713-20. doi:10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2016.0465. PMID: 27192174; PMCID: PMC5475268.
  2. Hong Kong Monthly Digest of Statistics - Population. Census and Statistics Department
  3. Song P, Zha M, Yang Q, Zhang Y, Li X, Rudan I. The prevalence of adult attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder: A global systematic review and meta-analysis. J Glob Health. 2021;11:04009
  4. University of Hong Kong. (2023, March 29). HKU researchers develop new method to detect early-stage Alzheimer’s disease
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