CHILDREN'S HEALTH Doctor cautions against overdiagnosing ADHD

A Texas pediatrician will sign copies of his book at two area bookstores.
By SEAN BARRON
VINDICATOR STAFF WRITER
In recent years, Dr. Julian S. Haber has been worried about the huge number of children diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Many are given medication to treat hyperactive behavior and a short attention span. But the problem, according to Dr. Haber, goes beyond difficult behavior: Many children are misdiagnosed and given unnecessary medication.
"From 1990 to 1995, there's been a sixfold increase in Ritalin," he said. Other stimulants children may not need also have been given increasingly often, he added.
Dr. Haber's concerns and frustrations led to his book, "ADHD: The Great Misdiagnosis" (Taylor Publishing Co., $14.95). The pediatrician, from Fort Worth, Texas, will be at two area bookstores this weekend to sign copies of the book.
Labeling: The disorder was discovered in the 1930s. But recently, teachers, parents and physicians with high caseloads have been too quick to label hyperactive behavior as ADHD without looking at the whole picture, Dr. Haber said.
"[Symptoms of] ADHD can be applied to other things as well," he mentioned. "Some examples are severe abuse, a move, depression or autism."
The American Academy of Pediatrics issued certain guidelines for identifying ADHD, such as a child's problems in different environments. Dr. Haber said children need to be seen in various settings such as school, home and play before a proper diagnosis can be made.
When faced with an overactive child, some teachers will assume ADHD and suggest the parents put the child on medication. Sometimes, though, the situation is more complicated, Dr. Haber said.
"Someone, such as a relative, picks up the child at school and takes him to see a physician. The physician gives him a precursory look and puts him on medication" without a full examination, he explained.
However, it's also important for professionals to not automatically dismiss ADHD, Dr. Haber cautions.
Factors: He said some premature babies and children who survive leukemia will often get the disorder. Dr. Haber also cited what he says is a lesser-known contributor.
"There's a hidden epidemic of women of childbearing years abusing alcohol," he said, adding that these children often develop learning problems and hyperactivity.
Dr. Haber pointed to the need for a thorough evaluation and offered ways to help someone with ADHD. He also said that when medication is needed, it should be part of the overall treatment.
"Parents and teachers can use structure and a routine at home and in the classroom," he said.
Dr. Haber stressed good communication among all who work with the child.
X Dr. Julian Haber will sign books from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday at Barnes and Noble, Boardman, and from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday at Borders Books, Niles.