2023-09-21 15:48:31
The number of adults submitting claims for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medications has increased over the past five years in Canada, and the trend shows no signs of slowing.
This is what a Manulife study published Thursday reveals. The data revealed shows that, from 2021 to 2022, the number of unique applicants for ADHD medications, aged 18 and over, increased by 24.5%.
In comparison, between 2017 and 2021, the average growth rate of applicants was 15.3%.
“Our data reflects the understanding that ADHD is not simply something that goes away with age. All employers should be aware that this disease can continue into adulthood,” said Ashesh Desai, head of group insurance at Manulife Canada, in a press release.
According to the Canadian ADHD Resource Alliance (CADDRA), ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders in Canada, affecting 4 to 6% of adults and 5 to 7% of children, or approximately 1.8 million children. Canadians.
“If left untreated, ADHD can be accompanied by other mental disorders such as depression and anxiety. This can lead to risk factors for several other health conditions, including cardiovascular disease and obesity, which may require people to take time off work,” the company recalled.
Better awareness
According to the report, one of the main factors behind the rise in diagnoses is the general awareness of ADHD. “Doctors are becoming better equipped to recognize the signs and symptoms of ADHD in adulthood,” we can read.
“In the long term, this can be seen as a positive as individuals take proactive steps to improve their health and well-being,” said Dr. Stephen Pomedli of Cleveland Clinic Canada, Medical Director, Group Insurance at Manulife.
The study also believes that the work environment, particularly teleworking during the COVID-19 pandemic, may have played a role in the re-emergence of ADHD symptoms, which were previously masked by a structured work environment.
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