Abstract:
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is one of the most common childhood neurobehavioral
disorders, which has a serious negative effect on educational achievement, peer relationships,
social functioning, behavior, and self-esteem of children. However, the pooled
prevalence of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is not well known in Ethiopia. Therefore,
the main objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to estimate the
pooled prevalence of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder among children and adolescents
in Ethiopia.
Methods
PubMed, HINARI, Science Direct, Psych INFO, Google Scholar, African Journals Online,
and cross-referenced were searched to identify relevant articles. Quality appraisal was
done using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist. Heterogeneity was tested using the Isquare
statistics. Publication bias was tested using a funnel plot visual inspection. Further,
trim and fill analysis was done to correct publication bias.Forest plots and tables were used
to present results. The random effect model was used to compute the pooled prevalence of
attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder among children and adolescents.
Results
The overall pooled prevalence of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder among children and
adolescents in Ethiopia was 14.2% (95% CI: 8.48, 22.83). Being male (OR: 2.19, 95% CI:
1.54; 3.12), being aged 6–11 years (OR: 3.67, 95% CI: 1.98; 6.83), low family socioeconomic
status (OR: 3.45 95% CI: 2.17; 5.47), maternal complication during pregnancy (OR:
3.29, 95% CI: 1.97; 5.51) and family history of mental illness (OR: 3.83, 95% CI:2.17; 6.77)
were factors associated with a higher odds of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder among
children and adolescents.Conclusions
The overall pooled prevalence of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder among children and
adolescents is high in Ethiopia as compared to previous literature. To reduce the prevalence
of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder among children and adolescents, emphasis has to
be given to prevention, early detection, and management of pregnancy-related complications.
Moreover, parents with mental illness should be supported and properly treated to
reduce the impact of hostile parenting on their child’s health.
