Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in India: epidemiology, diagnostic inequities, treatment gaps, and public mental health implications - Summary - MDSpire
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Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in India: epidemiology, diagnostic inequities, treatment gaps, and public mental health implications
To summarize current evidence on the epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment, environmental influences, and public health implications of ADHD in India, highlighting its significance as a public health concern.
Approach:
Key Findings:
ADHD is under-diagnosed in India, with significant gaps in awareness and access to specialized interventions, particularly in rural areas.
Prevalence estimates of ADHD vary widely across regions and populations in India, with some studies reporting rates as low as X% and others as high as Y%.
Access to specialist evaluation and treatment is uneven, particularly in rural areas, where healthcare resources are limited.
Current management strategies emphasize a multimodal approach, but treatment access is limited by financial constraints and healthcare infrastructure, affecting patient outcomes.
Environmental factors and early-life adversity may influence ADHD risk and symptom expression, necessitating further investigation.
Interpretation:
Strengthening epidemiological surveillance and improving equitable access to services are essential for enhancing ADHD outcomes in India, with implications for policy and practice.
Limitations:
Variability in study design and diagnostic practices affects prevalence estimates, potentially leading to underreporting.
Limited access to healthcare and specialist services hampers effective treatment, highlighting the need for systemic changes.
Conclusion:
Addressing the challenges of underdiagnosis and regional disparities in care is crucial for improving ADHD management in India, paving the way for future research and policy initiatives.
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