D3.166 - Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in asthmatic children

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and Asthma are among the most common chronic health problems in childhood. Higher incidence of ADHD among individuals with inflammatory and autoimmune conditions has been reported and suggests that inflammatory pathways may contribute to the development of ADHD. Nevertheless, the relationship between asthma and ADHD has not been conclusively established. This study was done to determine the prevalence of ADHD among children with asthma who attended an allergy and clinical immunology clinic.

This cross-sectional study was conducted on children aged 6 to 18 with asthma at Imam Ali hospital, Karaj, Iran. The patient’s demographic data, history of childbirth delivery type, premature birth, hospital admission, family income, birth rate, and family history information related to the patient’s asthma and medicines were recorded. ADHD diagnosis was made using the Persian version of Conners Parent Behavioral Problems Rating Scale (CPRS-26).

In this study, 677 asthmatic patients were enrolled; 46 patients (6.8%) had ADHD. The probability of ADHD in asthmatic patients inhabited in a rural area, males, and patients with a history of food allergy, allergic rhinitis, urticaria, and eczema was significantly higher (p < 0.05). In addition, our result demonstrated that the likelihood of ADHD in patients with asthma and the history of PICU admission was significantly higher (p < 0.05).

Physicians should be aware of this co-morbidity to refer asthmatic patients who have the symptoms of ADHD to a psychologist.