More than 1 in 10 US children has ADHD, US survey says; better awareness, screening cited

ATLANTA – Health officials say the number of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder continues to rise. The latest survey says more than 1 in 10 children has been diagnosed with it.

ADHD has been increasing for at least 15 years. Experts think that’s because more doctors are looking for ADHD, and more parents know about it. But the new survey suggests the increase may be levelling off a little.

The numbers come from a 2011 survey of parents with children ages 4 to 17 done by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

A 2007 survey found 9.5 per cent of kids had been diagnosed with ADHD. The condition makes it hard for kids to pay attention and control impulsive behaviours.

The CDC released the numbers Friday.

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