Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most commonly diagnosed psychiatric disorder in childhood (estimated global prevalence 3–5%). ADHD symptoms and impairments frequently continue into adulthood, but data on lifelong impact are limited.

The Lifetime Impairment Survey aimed to evaluate the extent of lifetime impairment of individuals with ADHD in six European countries. We analysed the responses obtained from adults with/without ADHD regarding their current situation.

The survey was developed by a committee of ADHD specialists and implemented by a market research organization. Participants were recruited from a database of 487,533 volunteers, and answered questions on ADHD diagnosis and current experiences. Survey items were combined into scales/scores evaluating different areas of impairment. Mean scale scores for ADHD and controls were compared. Cross-country comparisons of impairment scales were also performed.

A total of 629 adults with ADHD and 736 controls participated. ADHD was diagnosed after a median of 22 months and after consulting a median of two physicians. Impairments reported by adults with ADHD were significantly greater (p < 0.001) than controls in most areas investigated, including work, social and relationship functioning, mood/temper control, rule-breaking behaviour, self-organization/planning, and financial difficulties. Analyses of variance showed that the country effect on impairment scores was generally negligible, explaining only 1–3% of the observed variance.

Compared with controls, the impairments reported by adults with ADHD suggest a continued impact of the condition on both personal and professional life; no substantial cross-cultural differences were observed.

By Shire Development Inc.