Screening for Adult Attention-Deficit HyperactivityDisorder in the Korean Community Sample: Prevalenceand Association with Mood and Sleep Symptoms

Abstract

Objective: Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms start in early child hood and continue into adulthood, and are frequently associated with comorbid symp toms of depression, bipolar, insomnia, and daytime sleepiness. The aim of this study wasto screen adult ADHD symptoms in a community sample and investigate the associationof adult ADHD symptoms with mood and sleep symptoms. Methods: Respondents (n=1500) from the general adult population, aged between19 and 49 years, were recruited. The sample consisted of a population in Busan, Korea thatwas representative in terms of sex, age, and residential area. ADHD symptoms and mood/ sleep symptoms were assessed using validated questionnaires with cut-off threshold. Results: The screening for adult ADHD documented ADHD symptoms in 3% (45 out of1500) of the participants. The ADHD screen-positive group was more likely to have depres sion symptoms (OR=14.97, 95% CI: 7.94-28.25, P < .001) and daytime sleepiness symp toms (OR=3.18, 95% CI: 1.55-6.52, P < .001).Conclusion: Present result indicates high prevalence of adult ADHD symptoms in a com munity sample in Korea. The findings of this study also suggest significant associationbetween adult ADHD symptoms and depression symptoms and daytime sleepiness.Optimal management of adult ADHD requires the consideration of not only ADHD symp toms but also the assessment and treatment of symptoms associated with comorbidconditions.