A new report from the National Center for Health Statistics has found significant racial and ethnic disparities in the diagnosis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) among U.S. children aged 3-17 years. The study, based on data from the 2022 National Health Interview Survey, revealed that non-Hispanic Black children (16.9%) were more likely to have ever been diagnosed with ADHD compared to non-Hispanic White (13.2%) and Hispanic (11.0%) children.
The report also highlighted the underrepresentation of Hispanic children in ADHD diagnoses. Despite making up a significant portion of the U.S. child population, Hispanic children had the lowest prevalence of ADHD among the racial and ethnic groups studied.
“This disparity in ADHD diagnosis rates is concerning and warrants further investigation,” said Dr. Amanda Cohn, lead author of the study and a researcher at the National Center for Health Statistics. “Understanding the factors contributing to these differences is crucial for ensuring equitable access to mental health services for all children.”
The study also found that boys (17.7%) were more than twice as likely as girls (8.1%) to have ever been diagnosed with ADHD. Additionally, children living in families with incomes below 200% of the federal poverty level had a higher prevalence of ADHD compared to those from higher-income families.
These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions and policies to address the persistent racial and socioeconomic disparities in ADHD diagnosis and treatment among U.S. children.
“Racial and Ethnic Differences in the Prevalence of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Among U.S. Children Aged 3–17 Years” (March 1, 2024)
