Economic Implications of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder for Healthcare Systems

Abstract

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common chronic conditions of childhood, with adverse consequences that persist through adolescence into adulthood. Thus, the burden of illness associated with ADHD is high for affected individuals, their families, and society at large. This article reviews available information about ADHD-associated utilisation of healthcare resources, direct medical costs, and the costs or cost effectiveness of pharmacological interventions. Published estimates suggest that direct medical costs for youth with ADHD are approximately double those for youth without ADHD. Cross-sectional studies suggest that ADHD-associated incremental costs are highest for mental health services and pharmaceutical costs, and are greatest for youth with comorbid psychiatric conditions and for those being treated with stimulant medication. To guide relevant clinical and health policy, additional research is warranted on the following: source of increased costs observed among persons with ADHD; patient characteristics of those accruing high medical costs; and the long-term effect of ADHD treatment on direct and indirect costs.

NICE accountability for reasonableness: a qualitative study of its appraisal of treatments for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

“…Though economic studies of ADHD are still in their infancy -and thus far have been published predominantly in the United States -it is already clear that this disorder is associated with a substantial economic burden 28,29 . The case of the appraisal of ADHD interventions by NICE may be of particular interest for a number of reasons, all of which illustrate its relevance as well as its complexity.…”

Early determinants of attention and hyperactivity problems in adolescents: the 11-year follow-up of the 1993 Pelotas (Brazil) birth cohort study

“…With early onset, ADHD is one of the main reasons for consulting pediatric mental health services 2 and is among the most frequent mental disorders in childhood and adolescence 3 . It can also have a negative impact on scholastic performance and family and peer relations 3 .…”

Molecular genetic contribution to the developmental course of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder

“…Associated with a number of negative outcomes including poor academic performance as well as impaired peer and family relationships, [3] ADHD is one of the most common reasons for referral to specialist Child Mental Health Services [23]. Most studies show some symptom decline over time, alj Abstract Objective The developmental trajectory of attentiondeficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is variable.…”