Adult Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder.

ADHD is present in approximately 2.5% of adults worldwide.

• The prevalence estimate of 2.5% reflects a global figure across adult populations.
• The condition 'manifests in a variety of different ways across the lifespan,' indicating heterogeneous presentation in adults compared to children.
• Despite this prevalence, ADHD 'remains unrecognized and undiagnosed in many persons.'

Adults with ADHD frequently have coexisting psychiatric disorders.

• Coexisting psychiatric conditions include anxiety, mood, sleep, substance use, and personality disorders.
• The breadth of psychiatric comorbidities means adults with ADHD 'may be seen by clinicians providing care for a wide range of psychiatric and somatic conditions.'
• The presence of multiple comorbidities likely contributes to underrecognition of the underlying ADHD diagnosis.

Adults with ADHD are at increased risk for a range of coexisting somatic (physical) conditions.

• Somatic conditions associated with adult ADHD include obesity, cardiovascular disease, and cerebrovascular disease.
• Adults with ADHD also face elevated risk for type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
• Immune and inflammatory conditions are additionally identified as coexisting somatic risks.
• This broad somatic risk profile extends the clinical relevance of ADHD beyond psychiatric settings.

Assessment of adult ADHD requires structured interviewing for core symptoms, coexisting conditions, and functional effects.

• Key assessment components include interviewing the patient for 'core ADHD symptoms, coexisting conditions, and their functional effects.'
• Standardized rating scales are identified as tools that 'can facilitate' the assessment process.
• The assessment framework must account for the variety of ways ADHD manifests across the lifespan in adults.

Treatment of adult ADHD centers on psychoeducation and medication, combined with psychosocial interventions and lifestyle guidance.

• Key treatment components are described as 'psychoeducation and psychostimulant or nonstimulant medication.'
• Medication is described as used 'mostly in combination with psychosocial interventions and lifestyle guidance,' indicating a multimodal approach.
• Both stimulant and nonstimulant pharmacological options are recognized as primary treatment modalities.
• Psychosocial interventions and lifestyle guidance are presented as standard adjuncts rather than alternatives to medication.