Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a chronic condition that affects millions of children and often persists into adulthood. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is characterized by inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. ADHD is most commonly diagnosed in young people, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

It is estimated that between 3 and 5 percent of children have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or approximately 2 million children in the United States.

Although the symptoms of ADHD begin in childhood, ADHD can continue through adolescence and adulthood. Even though hyperactivity tends to improve as a child becomes a teen, problems with inattention, disorganization, and poor impulse control often continue through the teen years and into adulthood.

Children with ADHD are more likely than their peers to experience educational underachievement, social isolation and antisocial behavior during the school years and to go on to have significant difficulties in the post-school years. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neuro-developmental disorders of childhood.

Teachers are often the first to notice symptoms because they see children in a learning environment with peers every day. There is no one single test that can diagnose a child with ADHD.

Like many other illnesses, a number of factors may contribute to ADHD such as:
*Genes
*Cigarette smoking, alcohol use, or drug use during pregnancy
*Exposure to environmental toxins, such as high levels of lead, at a young age
*Low birth weight
*Brain injuries
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)