August 2005, Volume 27, No. 8
Internet

What's in the web for family physicians - attention deficiency and hyperactivity disorder

Alfred KY Tang 鄧權恩

Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Disorder
http://www.chadd.org

The Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Disorder organization (CHADD) is a non-profit body founded with the aim to improve the quality of life of children with attention deficiency and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and their parents. Its website gives a lot of detailed information about the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of ADHD. In collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Resource Center on ADHD was established for dissemination of information to both professionals and the public. The sections on the science of attention deficiency/hyperactivity disorder and myths and misunderstandings give visitors of the website a better understanding on ADHD as a genuine disorder.

National Institute of Mental Health: ADHD
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/publicat/adhd.cfm

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) developed an online booklet on ADHD. The booklet offers up-to-date information on attention deficit disorders and the role of research in discovering underlying causes and effective treatments. It describes the symptoms, other conditions that may produce similar symptoms, the underlying causes, and the steps involved in diagnosis of ADHD. Furthermore, treatment options, strategies for coping, behavioural interventions and sources of information and support are also covered. ADHD in teenage and adulthood are also described in the booklet.

One ADD Place
http://www.oneaddplace.com/

This is a website resource on ADHD. It contains abundant information on both child and adult attention deficit disorders and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Users can familiarise themselves with ADHD symptoms and methods to screen for the problem in children. They can also discover the latest natural treatments and pharmaceutical medications and medicines used to treat ADHD.

National Attention Disorder Information and Support Service
http://www.addiss.co.uk/

An UK website providing user-friendly information and resources on ADHD intended for parents, victims, teachers, and health professionals. Dedicated sections are available for different group of users. Family support is provided via different means _ telephone support, information resources, coping strategies as well as tips and hints. A leaflet providing practical information on managing these family stress points can be downloaded from the website. It helps to point to the user the direction for further sources of help and advice.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Information Source
http://www.add-attention-deficit-disorder.com

This site provides useful information and resource guide on ADHD for parents and teachers. It covers an overview of the effects of this disorder, a review of the treatment options currently available, discussion of Ritalin and other stimulant medications, a look at "alternative" treatments for ADHD, and research comparing the efficacy of traditional versus non-traditional treatment methods. Subscription information for a free ADHD eNewsletter is also available.

ADDitude Magazine
http://www.additudemag.com/additude.asp

With the goal of providing clear, accurate, user-friendly information and advice for families and individuals affected by ADHD, the ADDitude Magazine features daily news, advice, expert opinion and commentary. Visitors will also find answers to commonly asked questions regarding the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. Personal stories and accounts of raising children with this disorder, research, news-updates and other relevant information are also available.


Alfred K Y Tang, MBBS (HK)
Family Physician in Private Practice.

Correspondence to : Dr Alfred K Y Tang, Shop 3A, 2/F, Hsin Kuang Shopping Centre, Wong Tai Sin, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR.

E-mail : alfredtang@hkma.org