Queen Mary University of London's Dr Jessica Agnew-Blais is leading a new study that aims to provide a better understanding of Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), particularly how it progresses over time, and will gather much-needed new evidence on how ADHD presents in girls and women. The study is part of three projects that have been awarded £2.4m by the Medical Research Council (MRC) to bridge the knowledge gap in ADHD.
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that is usually diagnosed in children and can cause restlessness, difficulty concentrating, and impulsive behaviour. In some cases, especially in girls, the symptoms can go unnoticed until much later in life. If left untreated, the condition can lead to difficulties for some people, increasing their risk of anxiety and depression, and impacting on their relationships, career, and even life-expectancy.
Dr Joanna Latimer, Head of Neurosciences and Mental Health at MRC, part of UK Research and Innovation, said: "Previous research has shown that intervening at an early stage is crucial. If ADHD is correctly diagnosed and treated, the negative impacts that it can lead to in some circumstances will be greatly reduced. Our hope is that these projects will mean a greater number of people can be offered evidence-based interventions at the right time, so that the condition does not hold children and young adults back from reaching their potential."
Dr Agnew-Blais' study, titled "A life course approach to understand ADHD in women," will gather much-needed new evidence on how ADHD presents in girls and women and why so many women are not diagnosed with the condition until they are adults. For many years, ADHD has been viewed as a childhood disorder mainly affecting boys, which means much of the research to date has overlooked girls and women. As more women and girls are being diagnosed with the condition, it is critical that we understand more about how the condition may differ in women.
The study will use existing data from a longitudinal cohort with yearly assessments of ADHD to assess whether the onset of puberty is associated with increasing ADHD symptoms. It will also include new data collection to understand whether hormonal fluctuations across the menstrual cycle are associated with increased ADHD symptoms and impairment.
Dr Agnew-Blais said: "This study is an exciting opportunity to better understand the unique presentation of ADHD in women and girls and to identify potential points for intervention. We hope that this research will lead to improved diagnosis and treatment for women and girls with ADHD, ultimately improving their quality of life."
The study is set to provide valuable insights into ADHD in women and girls and to offer evidence-based interventions at the right time, so that the condition does not hold children and young adults back from reaching their potential.
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