Screening for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder symptoms among university students in Northern Morocco: A cross-sectional study.

Aim

To estimate the prevalence of screening-positive Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) symptoms among adult university students in Tangier, Northern Morocco, and to identify associated factors. SUBJECTS AND

Methods

A descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study was conducted from March to September 2024 among 819 students enrolled in institutions affiliated with Abdelmalek Essaadi University in Tangier. Data were collected using a standardized self-administered questionnaire. ADHD symptoms were assessed using the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS-V1.1), a validated screening tool.

Results

Approximately 45.05% [n = 369] of students screened positive for ADHD symptoms based on the ASRS-v1.1 Screener (95% CI: 41.6%-48.5%). Multivariate analysis showed significant associations with parental divorce (adjusted OR = 13.22), maternal age over 40 at childbirth (adjusted OR = 5.50), sleep difficulties (adjusted OR = 3.61), and academic difficulties (adjusted OR = 7.13).

Conclusion

A substantial proportion of university students in Tangier screened positive for ADHD symptoms on a validated self-report screening instrument. These findings highlight the need for increased awareness and targeted screening in university settings. Further research using diagnostic assessments is required to confirm these results and better characterize ADHD in this population.