Children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are at an increased risk for drug abuse problems and academic problems. Two Mayo Clinic studies compared 363 children with ADHD to 626 children without ADHD matched for age and gender.
Children with ADHD were 3.2 times more likely to have documented substance abuse problems than the children in the control group (17.9% vs. 6.5%). The ADHD children were 3.1 times more likely to have repeated a grade in school and 2.8 times more likely to have dropped out of school.
Children with ADHD are more likely to be diagnosed with other conditions such as learning problems, oppositional-defiant disorders, and other psychosocial problems which can affect these findings. Also unanswered is the possible role of stimulant medications.
Parents raising a child with ADHD have a tough job. Awareness of potential problems can help them be prepared to begin early prevention.
Pediatric Notes, 6/12/03, p. 93
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