title: Prevalence of ADHD among students of zahedan university of medical science in iran.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common mental disorder in adults that was under-diagnosed until recently. Due to probable consequences of ADHD such as occupational and educational dysfunctions and substance use, this disorder is becoming more and more of a concern. This study aimed to investigate ADHD symptoms among students of Zahedan University of medical sciences, Iran.
  
  
  METHODS
  This cross-sectional study was performed in Zahedan University of Medical Sciences from 2008 to 2009. Our sample included 1500 individuals who were chosen using simple sampling method. Considering the goal of the investigation, two questionnaires were distributed among students including demographic information form and the Conners' Adult ADHD Rating Scales-Self Report (Screening Version, CAARS-S:SV). Data analysis was done using descriptive and analytical statistics in SPSS software.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Out of 1500 questionnaires distributed among students, 913 were completed. 589 students (64.5%) were female and 324 (35.5%) were male. The Mean age of participants was 21.7 ± 3.2 years. ADHD symptoms were defined based on the Conner's adult test. Based on CAARS-S: SV, inattention/memory, hyperactivity/restlessness, impulsiveness/emotional lability, and problems with self-concept subscale symptoms were found in 107 (11.7%), 109 (12%), 121 (13.2%), and 30 (3.3%) respondents, respectively. These findings were significantly higher than average.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  According to our results, it seems that the prevalence of ADHD is high among students. Thus, more screening is required in this population in order to diagnose and treat the disorder earlier and prevent its consequences, such as substance abuse.
  
  
  BACKGROUND
  None.
authors.affiliation: General Practitioner, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran.
authors.forename: Monire
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Mosalanejad
authors.affiliation: Assistant Professor, Department of Mental Health, School of Nursing and Paramedical, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran.
authors.forename: Leili
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Mosalanejad
authors.affiliation: Assistant Professor, Department of Psychiatry, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran.
authors.forename: Kobra
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Lashkarpour
keywords: ADHD; Adult ADHD; Conners’ Adult ADHD Rating Scale; Student