ADHD in practice - 2015


Comment: ADHD in theory and practice
Rob Rodrigues Pereira
pp 23-23
In this issue, Anna Backman, one of 1,600 delegates at the recent 5th World Congress on ADHD, summarises some of the talks, on research and daily practice, given by world famous scientists at the meeting, including three of our board members, Andrea Bilbow, Søren Dalsgaard and Susan Young. Although there are many problems to be solved to ensure the best individualised care, there is a steady progression towards elucidating genetic and environmental influences that are important for the successful treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and for identifying those at increased risk of treatment failure, morbidity and mortality. I hope that this theory can be translated into practice in the years to come. After reading the report, I am sure you will be inspired to attend the next congress in Vancouver in 2017, to ensure you remain at the frontline of knowledge!
The Children’s Attention Project: a community-based, controlled, longitudinal study of ADHD
Daryl Efron and Emma Sciberras
pp 24-26
A large body of research has focused on the aetiology and treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, few studies have systematically investigated longterm outcomes. A small number of North-American studies following clinical samples have found that childhood ADHD is associated with an increased risk of adverse outcomes across domains in adolescence and adulthood. Compared with non-ADHD controls, young people with ADHD have poorer educational, social and mental health outcomes, as well as some physical health problems, such as overweight/ obesity. Yet the factors influencing outcomes in young people with ADHD are poorly understood. Some potential antecedents have been examined, including patient characteristics (such as IQ, comorbid mental health problems and ADHD type, severity and persistence), parent/family factors (such as mental health, ADHD diagnosis, parenting style and socioeconomic status) and treatment variables (such as education programmes and stimulant medication). However, these have mostly been studied in isolation and/or cross-sectionally.
The 5th World Congress on ADHD
Anna Backman
pp 27-29
Hosting more than 1,600 delegates from 64 countries, the Scottish Exhibition and Conference Centre, set on the beautiful Clyde River in the former docklands of Glasgow, was the venue for the biennial World Congress on ADHD: From Child to Adult Disorder. The 5th congress, held on 28–31 May 2015, offered a plethora of events, including research and education seminars, meet-the-expert sessions, large plenary talks, research consortia, young scientist sessions, guided poster tours and hot topic sessions.
Computer game addiction and ADHD
Frank W Paulus
pp 30-33
Computers, game consoles and video games have become a feature of everyday life for children and adolescents. Computer game addiction or excessive computer gaming is an emerging theme in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. However, research into a possible association is limited.
Abstract: Diagnosis, treatment and outcomes of ADHD
Nigel Humphrey
pp 34-34
In this regular column, we feature a collection of abstracts that highlight some of the new research in the field of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Research into this field is diverse and rapidly expanding, and we will endeavour to give you a sample of new findings and trends. We have collated the abstracts from a number of peer-reviewed journals. Links to the full articles are provided, although you may need subscription access to view them.
The DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for ADHD
Søren Dalsgaard
pp 35-38
The fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) revised the diagnostic criteria for a number of mental disorders, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Prior to publication, the DSM-5 ADHD and Disruptive Behavior Disorders Work Group prepared the revisions to the ADHD criteria, which was followed by a public hearing of the proposed changes.
Resources: CADDRA

pp 39-39
In 2003, a small group of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder experts from across Canada, led by Toronto-based child and adolescent psychiatrist Dr Umesh Jain, created the Canadian ADHD Resource Alliance (CADDRA), an independent, multidisciplinary alliance of healthcare professionals.