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Abstract
Background:
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity
Disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent
neurodevelopmental disorder
that affects children and
adolescents, often persisting
into adulthood. Primary healthcare
(PHC) physicians play a crucial
role in the early identification,
referral, and management of
ADHD, yet their knowledge,
attitudes, and clinical practices
may vary.
Aim:
To assess the knowledge, attitudes,
and performance of primary
healthcare physicians in Tabuk
City, Saudi Arabia, regarding
ADHD in children and adolescents.
Methods:
A cross-sectional study was
conducted among 181 PHC physicians
in Tabuk City from April to
September 2024. Data were
collected using a structured,
self-administered questionnaire
distributed via interviews
and online forms. The questionnaire
included sections on sociodemographic
characteristics, knowledge
(12 items), attitudes, and
clinical practices related
to ADHD. A pilot study confirmed
the reliability of the questionnaire
(Cronbach’s alpha = 0.72).
Results:
The majority of participants
(82.3%) had good overall knowledge
of ADHD. While most correctly
identified core ADHD symptoms
and its chronic nature, misconceptions
persisted regarding gender
differences and the need for
private educational support.
Attitudes were generally positive,
with 80.1% supporting a role
for PHC physicians in ADHD
management, although 58.0%
believed it is not their job.
Only 33.7% reported diagnosing
ADHD cases in the past year,
and of those, 90.2% referred
patients to specialists. Age
and gender were significantly
associated with knowledge
levels (p = 0.049 and p =
0.004, respectively), whereas
other factors showed no significant
association.
Conclusion:
PHC physicians in Tabuk show
generally good knowledge and
a positive attitude toward
ADHD, yet gaps in practice
and misconceptions remain.
Strengthening ADHD-specific
training and enhancing PHC
involvement in early identification
and management are recommended
to improve care delivery for
affected children and adolescents.
Keywords:
ADHD, primary healthcare,
knowledge, attitude, physicians,
Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
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