New Guidelines Issued for ADHD Management in Children
The Haute Autorité de santé releases recommendations to improve diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, addressing long-standing controversies.
- ADHD affects approximately 5 to 5.5% of children globally, yet treatment access remains limited in France.
- Only 15 to 20% of children in France who need ADHD medication, such as Ritalin, receive it, partly due to a shortage of qualified prescribers.
- The new guidelines aim to clarify diagnostic procedures and treatment options, providing a 'mode d'emploi' for families and healthcare providers.
- Misconceptions about ADHD contribute to stigma and can delay effective treatment, as highlighted by international experts.
- The recommendations are a significant step toward recognizing ADHD as a legitimate neurodevelopmental disorder, offering hope to affected families.