Attention deficit disorder with or without hyperactivity (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders in children. In Canada, approximately 5-10% of children are diagnosed with ADHD, a figure that is constantly rising, reflecting both increased awareness and better recognition of symptoms. The diagnosis of ADHD in children involves a number of health professionals, including physicians and specialized nurse practitioners (NP), who play an essential role in the assessment, diagnosis and management of the disorder.
This article explores the various stages in the assessment of ADHD in children in Canada, highlighting the key role of physicians and PHNs, and offering an overview of statistics relating to this disorder in the country.
The process of assessing ADHD in children
Theassessment of ADHD in children is a complex process that requires a multidimensional approach. This disorder is not diagnosed on the basis of a single test or examination, but rather through a process of gathering information from different sources, such as parents, teachers and clinical observations. Here are the main steps in the process:
1. First contact with a healthcare professional
In most cases, the process begins when parents or teachers notice signs of ADHD in a child, such as difficulty concentrating, hyperactivity or excessive impulsivity. They can then consult a healthcare professional, often a family doctor, who will be the first to make an initial assessment of the symptoms.
The doctor gathers information on the child’s behavior at home and at school, as well as medical and family history. This initial assessment helps determine whether the child shows signs compatible with ADHD, or whether other conditions, such as anxiety disorders, learning disabilities or sleep disorders, may be causing the symptoms.
2. Use of standardized assessment tools
To make an accurate diagnosis, healthcare professionals use standardized assessment tools, such as questionnaires and observation grids. In Canada, the CADDRA form is frequently used to assess ADHD symptoms. This questionnaire, based on the criteria of the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders), quantifies the intensity of symptoms and compares the child’s behaviours with those of other children of the same age.
Questionnaires are often completed by parents and teachers, as they provide a comprehensive perspective of the child’s behaviors in different contexts (home and school). This collaborative approach is essential for accurate diagnosis.
3. Role of an IPS in the diagnosis
Nurse practitioners (NP), who benefit from advanced healthcare training, are increasingly involved in the diagnosis and management of ADHD in children. In collaboration with physicians, they provide essential support to families and help speed up the diagnosis and treatment process.
4. Specialist consultation
In some cases, if ADHD symptoms are particularly complex or other disorders are suspected, the family doctor may refer the child to a specialist pediatrician or psychologist. These specialists can deepen the evaluation by using cognitive tests or performing more detailed behavioral assessments.
5. Diagnosis and treatment plan
Once the assessment is complete, if a diagnosis of ADHD is confirmed, a personalized treatment plan is drawn up. This plan may include behavioral interventions, adjustments to the school environment and, in some cases, medication. Psychostimulants, such as methylphenidate and amphetamines, are the most commonly prescribed pharmacological treatments to help regulate ADHD symptoms.
It’s important to note that ADHD is a complex disorder that varies from child to child. Consequently, each treatment must be tailored to the child’s specific needs, and include regular follow-up by healthcare professionals.
Statistics and trends in ADHD among children in Canada
ADHD is one of the most frequently diagnosed neurodevelopmental disorders in Canadian children. In fact, according to the Institut national de santé publique du Québec, the prevalence of ADHD in the 1-24 age group has quadrupled in the last 20 years. According to Statistics Canada, approximately 5% to 10% of school-age children have ADHD. These figures vary by province and age group, but ADHD is widely recognized as a disorder that affects many young Canadians.
Boys are more likely than girls to be diagnosed with ADHD. According to the INSPQ, nearly twice as many boys as girls have ADHD. However, research shows that girls with ADHD are often under-diagnosed, as they tend to present with less visible symptoms, such as inattention, rather than hyperactivity.
The prevalence of ADHD in Canada has also increased in recent years, largely due to greater awareness of the disorder and increased recognition of symptoms by teachers, parents and healthcare professionals. This increase in diagnoses has led to greater demand for specialized health services, including assessments by physicians and PHNs.
As with adults, the assessment of ADHD in children in Canada is a meticulous process that relies on the collaboration of many health professionals, including physicians and specialized nurse practitioners. Through the use of standardized diagnostic tools and a multidimensional approach, ADHD can be accurately identified and effective treatment plans put in place.
With ADHD on the rise in children, it’s important to refer to healthcare professionals for assessment. Contact the team of doctors and nurses at Priveo Santé today to book an appointment at our Laval or Longueuil clinic, or even via telemedicine.
