Epidemiology of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Senegal

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders in children, characterized by persistent symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that significantly impair development and daily functioning. This study aimed to examine the epidemiology and associated risk factors of ADHD among children and adolescents aged 5 to 14 years in Senegal. A cross-sectional, observational, and analytical study was conducted between July and August 2023 using a nationally representative sample of randomly selected households, proportionally distributed according to regional demographic weight. ADHD community screening was conducted through parent-reported assessments in household settings. Data were collected via Open Data Kit (ODK) and analyzed using R software. Ethical approval was obtained from the National Ethics Committee for Health Research in Senegal (SEN/2023/31). Out of 364 children surveyed (median age: 10 years; IQR: 7–13; male-to-female ratio: 1.14), the overall prevalence of ADHD was 32.96%. Inattentive-type ADHD affected 12.36%, hyperactivity 15.93%, oppositional defiant disorder 19.23%, and conduct disorder 27.19%. Prolonged exposure to screens (more than 2 h per day) was significantly associated with ADHD (adjusted OR = 2.08, 95% CI: 1.27–3.48, p = 0.004). These findings underscore the urgent need for integrated, multisectoral strategies including prevention, early detection, and enhanced educational and healthcare interventions to improve the management of ADHD in Senegal. Key words: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, neurodevelopmental disorders, children, mental health, Senegal.