The Economic Burden of Injuries in Children With ADHD in the U.S. From 2011 to 2020

Abstract

Objective: Few studies have examined the economic burden of and sociodemographic disparities in injuries on families of children with ADHD on a national scale. The objective of this study was to address these literature gaps. Methods: Data from 7,102 children with ADHD aged 5 to 17 years in the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey 2011 to 2020 were analyzed for national trends, annualized average, and sociodemographic disparities in injury-related medical expenditures among children with ADHD. Results: The national economic burden of injuries for children with ADHD has nearly doubled over the10-year period. These costs were covered by private insurance (62%), public insurance (29%), and families (9%). Asian race was associated with higher total and family expenditures while having low income and public insurance were associated with lower family expenditures. Conclusions: Families and society carry significant and increasing economic burdens related to injuries in children with ADHD. Sociodemographic disparities are substantial and of policy relevance.