Evaluation of adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in smokers and Maras powder users

Abstract

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate adult attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in smokers, Maras powder users and non-users of tobacco products by using the Adult Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder Self-report Scale (ASRS). Methods: The study was performed on 446 males presenting to family health centers in Kahramanmara, Turkey. Of 446 participants, 104 were Maras powder users, 133 were smokers and 209 were volunteers not using any tobacco products. Data were collected with a questionnaire composed of questions about socio-demographic features and features of smoking and Maras powder use, and the Fagerström Nicotine Dependence Scale and the ASRS. P < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: The mean age of the participants was 33.94 ± 10.68 years (min = 18, max = 64). There was no significant difference in age between the study groups (P = 0.089). Thirty-one participants (7.0%) received scores higher than the cut-off value (≥ 14 points) for the short form of the ASRS. Twenty-one participants (4.7%) achieverd scores higher than the cut-off value (≥ 44 points) for the ASRS. The smokers received the highest scores of 8.42 ± 3.79 for all the subscales of the short version of the ASRS, 26.87 ± 10.46 for the ASRS, 12.57 ± 6.47 for the attention deficit subscale and 14.30 ± 5.35 for the hyperactivity and impulsivity subscale. Conclusion: Higher rates of the smokers and the Maras powder users had symptoms of ADHD. Considering nicotine may decrease symptoms of ADHD, it can be assumed that the rates of the smokers and Maras powder users with ADHD are higher.

• Attention deficit
• Cigarettes
• Hyperactivity
• Maras powder
• Smokeless tobacco

Acknowledgement

This manuscript was presented as an poster presentation at the 13th National Congress of Turkish Family Medicine, Antalya, Turkey, on April 23–27, 2013.

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.