Issue number June 2011 Doctor: Dr. Chan Yan Wing (Paediatric Specialist)
"How many times have I told you not to wander around when eating!" "I've told you to brush your teeth and change your clothes so many times and you won't listen! If you don't go quickly, you'll be late for school!" "What time is it now? You're so easily distracted doing homework every day, and if you finish so late, how will you have the energy for class tomorrow!"
Do not assume the aforementioned situations are merely the behaviour of naughty children deliberately acting out against their parents; they can be indicative of them suffering fromAttention deficit hyperactivity disorder(commonly referred to as ADHD) behavioural characteristics.
Cause: Combination of pathological and environmental factors
The causes of ADHD are a combination of multiple factors, including genetic factors.Dr. Chan Yan WingFrom a neurological perspective, the prefrontal cortex of the human brain is the centre controlling concentration. An imbalance in neurotransmitters directly affects an individual's concentration. Furthermore, environmental factors, such as an individual's upbringing, can also contribute to these issues.
In Hong Kong, one in every 15 children has ADHD, a condition that is common but often overlooked by parents. Parents tend to attribute the symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) (*see table below) in their children to them being 'active', 'disobedient' or their own lack of parenting skills, overlooking the pathological aspect.
| Symptoms of inattention | Symptoms of hyperactivity |
| Cannot concentrate on the same thing for a long time Difficult to follow instructions. Easily influenced by the surroundings when doing things Disorganised, unable to properly manage one's own affairs. | Talking too much Constantly gesticulating and running around wildly Poor self-control, such as interrupting others' conversations. Frequently leaves their seat without permission in the classroom. |
The drug treatment is effective.
Dr. Chan continued that not addressing ADHD early on can affect a child's academic performance, social development, and self-confidence. In the long term, it may lead to personality traits such as an unwillingness to try new things, giving up easily when facing challenges, and low self-worth, as well as poorer parent-child relationships. Research has found that medication is an effective treatment for ADHD, with commonly used drugs including methylphenidate or norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. Methylphenidate, in particular, has been widely used globally for over 40 years, with its efficacy and safety proven. This medication is currently available in short-acting (approximately 5 to 6 hours) or long-acting (up to 12 hours) formulations. Patients can improve their concentration during school lessons by taking one long-acting capsule in the morning. Furthermore, as only one dose is required daily, parents need not worry about their child forgetting to take their medication, and it also prevents children from feeling inferior or embarrassed by having to take medication in front of their classmates.
