ADHD Rates on the Rise

From 1998 to 2009, the percentage of children diagnosed with ADHD - characterized by levels of inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity leading to behavioral problems - increased from 7 percent to 9 percent, according to the study.

"ADHD continues to increase, and that has implications for educational and health care because kids with ADHD disproportionately use more services, and there are several co-morbid conditions that go along with it," said Dr. Lara J. Akinbami, lead author of the study.

The study also found:

• A higher larger increase in ADHD among children in the South and Midwest regions of the U.S.

• The diagnosis affects more boys than girls.

• The number of cases increased by about 10 percent in children living in low-income households.

• Every major ethnic group saw an increase in ADHD, except for children of Mexican descent.

Child development experts say it's not clear whether the number of reported cases of ADHD has actually increased, or whether there's simply more awareness of the disorder. Research has also suggested that advanced maternal and paternal age and something as simple as getting too little sleep could be factors in some developmental disabilities and hyperactivity.

One recent study revealed that preschoolers who get less sleep are more likely to be hyperactive and inattentive in kindergarten. The study, conducted by SRI International, a nonprofit research institute in Menlo Park, Calif., involved about 6,800 children.

It found that children who are not getting adequate sleep may be at risk for developing behavioral problems manifested by hyperactivity, impulsivity and problems sitting still and paying attention.

According to experts, ADHD symptoms can start as early as age 3, but most children can't be diagnosed until age 7 because many symptoms of the condition are within the range of normal behavior in young children. Parents who suspect their child might have a developmental delay should talk to a healthcare provider about their concerns.

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