ADHD and autism at risk of over-diagnosis, says government review

A review in England warns that many people may be diagnosed with ADHD and autism more often than expected. Experts say the number of diagnoses has risen sharply over the past 25 years, especially among younger age groups, and now exceeds the expected population rates. The review urges stricter rules for private firms that provide NHS assessments, including better quality control and a ban on advertising.

There is a risk of people being over-diagnosed with ADHD and autism, an official review in England has found. Experts said a rise in diagnoses over the past 25 years meant cases now appear to be outstripping the expected number in the population for some younger age groups. The review called for tougher regulation of private firms offering assessments for the NHS, saying they had concerns about quality and consistency, and a ban on advertising.

Summarised by Agaah from BBC Health. Agaah aggregates 36 sources and removes duplicate coverage — all news, one place.