Observations

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most publicized and recognized childhood developmental problems. Research published in a psychiatric journal in 2000 indicates that between 3 percent and 5 percent of all U.S. children are affected by the inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness that characterize the condition.

What is less well-known is that studies have found that between 30 percent and 70 percent of those who had ADHD as children still have symptoms as adults. Few adults, however, are identified or treated for the condition.

Diagnosing an adult with ADHD is difficult, according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Adults usually don't know that they have the condition. Oftentimes, they find it difficult, if not impossible, to manage routine tasks such as getting to work on time, getting dressed, and paying their bills.

Some adults with ADHD find out they have it when their child is diagnosed with the disorder. The symptoms of distractibility, impulsivity, and restlessness seen in their child are similar to what they've experienced for years. Others may be told they have ADHD when they seek professional help for depression, anxiety, or other emotional problems, according to the NIMH.

For more on adults with ADHD, see our cover story titled "ADHD: Not Just for Kids Anymore."

For some couples, starting a family isn't easy. The National Center for Health Statistics says that more than 2 million married couples, about 7 percent, reported having difficulty in achieving pregnancy. The data, gathered by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 1995, are the most recent available.

More than 6 million U.S. women, ages 15 to 44, reported having difficulty getting pregnant or carrying a child, the survey found. In addition, the data indicate that the prevalence of infertility among childless women rises significantly with increasing age. Infertility is not influenced by education level, or racial or ethnic categories.

In recent years, technological advances and increased understanding of the reproductive process have resulted in new and better techniques to achieve pregnancy. For more on these techniques and answers to often-asked questions, see our feature story titled "Facing Infertility."

In early October 2004, Chiron Corp. notified public health officials that none of the company's flu vaccine, Fluvirin, would be available for distribution in the United States during the 2004-2005 flu season. The action, which followed a decision by government health authorities in the United Kingdom to suspend the company's license to produce vaccine, meant that about half of the supply of flu vaccine expected for this flu season would not be available. For the latest recommendations on flu vaccine and tips for avoiding the flu, see our story in this issue.

We also take a look at the importance of public comment on rules proposed by the FDA, and at a new law called the Project BioShield Act of 2004, designed to improve the country's defense against biological, radiological, and nuclear attack.

Happy Holidays from the Staff of FDA Consumer.

Ray Formanek Jr.
Editor

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