Exploring attention deficit hyperactivity disorder prevalence and its relation to video game addiction among Egyptian medical students: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) imposes hidden public health problems that should be addressed. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of ADHD and to explore the association between video game addiction & other predictors and ADHD among medical university students in Egypt. Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed using a self-administered questionnaire between July and November 2023. ADHD was assessed by the Adult ADHD Self-Reporting Scale (ASRS). A seven-item Game Addiction Scale (GAS-7) was used to determine the level of game addiction. Results: We studied 1765 medical students with a mean age of 20.2 ± 1.2 years. The majority of them are females (67.8%). This study found a high rate of probable ADHD (35%) among Egyptian medical students. ADHD was associated with female sex and lower academic performance. Video game addiction prevalence was 24.7%, more common in younger students. Conclusion: In conclusion, this study found a high prevalence of probable ADHD and video game addiction among Egyptian medical students. Increased awareness and targeted interventions are needed to support medical students with ADHD and address video game addiction.

Keywords

• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
• Egypt
• Medical students
• Video game addiction