RISK OF ATTENTION DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER (ADHD) AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS AMONG MEDICAL STUDENTS AT HANOI MEDICAL UNIVERSITY IN 2025

Abstract

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder that persists into adulthood, often impairing academic and social functioning. University students, particularly in medical fields, face substantial academic stress that may heighten vulnerability to ADHD symptoms. In Vietnam, limited evidence exists regarding ADHD prevalence among medical students. Objective: This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of ADHD risk among undergraduate students at Hanoi Medical University (HMU) in 2025 and to identify associated demographic, social, and academic factors. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 181 students using a structured online questionnaire. ADHD risk was assessed with the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS v1.1). Sociodemographic and academic characteristics were analyzed using Chi-square tests and logistic regression to explore associations with ADHD risk. Results: Overall, 33.7% of participants screened positive for ADHD risk. Male students exhibited significantly higher prevalence compared to females (42.0% vs. 27.0%, p = 0.049). Academic program differences were marked, with General Medicine (63.2%) and Dentistry (69.2%) showing the highest risk, while Preventive Medicine students had the lowest (22.4%) (p = 0.0004). Logistic regression indicated female students were less likely to be at risk (OR = 0.51; 95% CI: 0.27–0.95). Other factors, including academic year, living arrangements, part-time employment, and prior mental health history, showed no significant associations. Conclusion: The prevalence of ADHD risk among HMU students was substantially higher than global estimates, underscoring an urgent need for awareness, early screening, and support services. Targeted interventions for high-risk groups, especially male students and those in clinically demanding programs, are recommended to safeguard academic performance and future professional well-being.