Risk factors for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: a case-control study in 5 to 12 years old children

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder known by a pattern of diminished sustained attention and increased impulsivity or hyperactivity. This study aimed to evaluate the risk factors associated with ADHD. METHODS: This case-control study included 297 ADHD children aged 5–12 years admitted to Tehran Institute of Psychiatry, Iran (2012–2013). They were compared with 297 non-ADHD (as controls matched to cases 1:1) who were of the same age (±1 years) selected from outpatients in general pediatric medical centers in Tehran. ADHD Rating Scale IV (ADHD-RS-IV)-Home Version was used to confirm ADHD. Data were analyzed using conditional binary logistic regression. RESULTS: Mean±SD age were 8.18±3.11 and 8.11±2.9 years in the case and control groups, respectively (P=0.61). Mean±SD birth weight (BW) was higher in ADHD patients compared with the controls (3245.09±0.66 vs 3026.56±0.45 gr, P=0.045). The results showed that odds of ADHD in children with high BW (>3500g) was 3.36 (1.96–5.78) times the odds of ADHD in normal BW children (2500–3500g) controlling for other risk factors. ADHD risk in low BW children (<2500 g) was not statistically different compared with normal BW children [OR:1.74 (0.7–3.7)]. Experience of neonatal disease, fewer offspring, lower level of mothers’ education, and preterm delivery were also risk factors for higher odds of ADHD. CONCLUSION: Based on our sample, preterm birth, neonatal disease, high BW, lower level of mother’s education, and fewer offspring were ADHD risk factors.