fpn_csc_petra_hurks_2.pdf
(209.11 kB, PDF)
… Martin van Boxtel Proposal (250 words): ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders in children worldwide. It is characterized by inattention, hyperactivity- impulsivity or a combination thereof (APA, 2013). ADHD is often associated with (life-long) functional impairments (e.g., academic impairment, addictive behavior) and a lower quality of life. Besides genetic factors, pre- and perinatal risk factors (PPFs) are likely to determine if ADHD becomes manifest. Etiology and … multiple PPFs (biological, cognitive, behavioral (incl. eating habits)) at several time points, both prenatal and perinatal. In 1,000 of them, we contacted their general practitioner and asked about diagnosis of ADHD and medication for this condition when the children were 8-10 years. As many as 8% of the children were reported to have a diagnosis of ADHD, and 7% uses methylphenidate, figures comparable to the Dutch general population. Based on these data, we can now study the relation between PPFs and ADHD and make strong inferences. For instance, we observed a strong association with pre-pregnancy BMI of the mother and that the prevalence is much lower in participants with alternative lifestyles. This …