(NAPSA)—Most people know about the problems children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) may face—such as academic and behavioral troubles in school, and difficulty interacting with family and friends. However, adults living with ADHD mayface serious conse- Dr. Barkley, author of a recently published book, ADHD in Adults: Whatthe Science Says. Two studies, one conducted at the University of Massachusetts (the UMASS study) and one conducted at The Medical College of Wisconsin in Milwaukee (the Mil- waukee study), were recently published in a book by Dr. Barkley. Observational outcomes showed that adults with ADHD, when compared to a control group, were more likely to use certain illicit quences as well. Nationally recognized Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) authority Russell Barkley, Ph.D., has embarked on a national speaking tourto discuss the symptoms of ADHD in adults and the potentially serious consequences these symptoms may have on the life of an adult living with this disorder. The disorder is also estimated to affect 4.4 percent of U.S. adults aged 18 to 44 based on results from the National Comorbidity Survey Replication, a nationally representative household survey, which used a lay-administered diagnostic interview to access a wide range of DSM-IV disorders. The purpose of this tour is to help raise awareness about the importance of identifying, diagnosing and treating ADHDin adults. In children, ADHD mayinterfere with paying attention in school, completing homework or making friends. Difficulties experienced in childhood may continue into adulthood. The symptoms of ADHD in adults may lead to potentially serious consequences. Surveys have shown that when compared with their non-ADHD peers, adults with ADHD maybe: Three times morelikely to be currently unemployed Two times more likely to have problems keeping friends * Forty-seven percent more likely to have trouble saving moneyto paybills Four times more likely to have contracted a sexually transmitted disease. “This educational initiative is meant to provide information about ADHD in adults including the results of recent studies of adults with ADHD concerning their symptoms, impairments and functionality in many domains of life that support the results of previous research in this area,” said drugs, engage in certain antisocial behavior, have financial problems and engage in risky sexual behavior. Outcomes of both studies were observed and documented through a combination of data gathering techniques, such as self-reporting, patient interviews and observation. “These results, together with what we already know about ADHD, give the impression that ADHDhasa potentially significant impact on the lives of many patients. There is hope for adults with ADHD. Today there are ways to manage this chronic condition, and I hope these findings serve as an impetus for adults with ADHD to seek medical advice from their healthcare providers,” said Dr. Barkley. For more information on ADHD, please visit www.ADHD Support.com or www.add.org.
