Exploring Public Knowledge and Perceptions of ADHD-related web searches: An Infodemiology study in 15 countries

Introduction: Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one the most common neuropsychiatric disorders particularly affecting children with a worldwide distribution. The aim of this study was to examine the near real-time spread of health information regarding ADHD through Internet data in 15 countries. Materials and Methods: On October 13, through Google Trends (GTr) we applied the most used terms referring to ADHD, determining the relative search volume (RSV) of ADHD-related searches from 15 countries. We analyzed the data both qualitatively and quantitatively, the last one using a 12-month predictive ARIMA model. Results: The most searched categories in the 15 countries were Definition, Age, and Signs and Symptoms with Treatment being the least searched. Additionally, we observed a rising pattern in interest over time (IOT) with a peak in 2020. Conclusion: There is a growing interest among the general population in understanding what is ADHD, which reveals the areas where we can improve information resources available for patients as well as implement the use Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) to bridge this gap.