Summary
A study by King's College London found that the number of people diagnosed with ADHD is rising, but the actual number of people with the condition hasn't increased since 2020. The researchers suggest that better awareness and acceptance are prompting more people to seek help, rather than an increase in ADHD itself.
Key Facts
- Researchers from King's College London analyzed 40 studies from 17 countries to understand ADHD diagnosis trends.
- The study found no increase in the true rate of ADHD, known as prevalence, since 2020, despite more diagnoses.
- Greater awareness and acceptance are believed to be reasons for more people seeking ADHD diagnoses.
- In the UK, around 3-4% of adults and 5% of children are estimated to have ADHD, but many remain undiagnosed.
- ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects concentration, energy, and impulsiveness.
- NHS England reports nearly 2.5 million people in England have ADHD, with over 550,000 waiting for assessment.
- Healthwatch England and experts advocate for better support and quicker assessment processes.
- The study was published in the Journal of Affective Disorders.
