Around 65% of children with ADHD continue to be impaired by symptoms in adulthood. Nevertheless, ADHD in adults is often poorly understood and misdiagnosed globally, notably in Europe. Furthermore, few data are available comparing the experiences of adult patients with ADHD from different geographical regions.

To examine the symptoms and impairments associated with ADHD in adults from the patient's perspective and to better understand how culture, country of residence and different ADHD management approaches can impact on the experiences of adults with the condition.

Data were obtained from focus groups in the USA, Canada, UK, The Netherlands, Italy, France and Germany. Patients participated in semi-structured interviews using a series of open-ended questions relating to medical history, life experience, daily impacts of ADHD and psychological and social issues. Transcripts of the interviews were analysed based on grounded theory qualitative data analysis methodology.

Data from 14 focus groups representing 103 adults with ADHD (mean age 36, 47% female) were analysed. Reported impacts were consistent across focus groups with respect to the participants’ history of diagnosis, symptoms, medication use, childhood experiences, and psychological and social issues as adults, regardless of country of residence, culture, treatment patterns or health care systems. Minimal differences were reported with respect to the perception of ADHD, treatment options and costs of care. This poster will focus on European results.

The burden of illness and impacts of ADHD in adults are largely independent of culture or country of residence.

Supported by Shire Development, Inc.