2 research outputs found
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder across the lifespan
This article is a research summary of published and non-published work pertaining to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders (ADHD). ADHD is one of the most common child mental health disorders and is under-recognised in children (5.29%) and adults (2.5%). ADHD is highly heritable with a multifactorial pattern of inheritance. Siblings and parents of a child with ADHD are 4 to 5 times more likely to have ADHD. Methylphenidate is the first line pharmacological treatment with a combined response (this includes trials of other licensed amphetamines) rate of 95%. All clinicians working in mental health should be aware of this disorder, comfortable diagnosing and treating people with ADHD. Young people with untreated ADHD are 5 times more likely to develop antisocial behaviour, substance abuse and other co morbid psychiatric disorders.peer-reviewe
National analyses on survival in Maltese adult patients on renal replacement therapy started during 2009–2012
Chronic kidney disease patients on maintenance dialysis (CKD 5D) experience major morbidity and
mortality. No data on survival in Maltese dialysis patients exist; therefore, the aim of this study was to
rigorously examine survival statistics in a complete cohort of Maltese CKD 5D patients.
The study population was comprised of all incident chronic patients (N=328) starting dialysis at the
renal unit, Mater Dei hospital, Msida, Malta, for 4 consecutive years (2009–2012). Each yearly cohort
was analysed in detail up to 31st December 2017, providing up to 8 years follow-up. Demographics
(male 65%; female 35%), aetiology of renal failure (diabetic kidney disease: n=191; 58.2%), comorbidities,
transplant status, and death were documented. Data collection and follow up were completed and
statistical analysis was performed on the aggregated cohorts with SPSS version 23 with censoring up
to 31st December 2017.
The cumulative adjusted 5-year overall survival in Maltese CKD 5D patients was 0.36 and 0.25 at 8
years. No statistical difference was observed according to the year of starting dialysis. Cox regression
analysis showed that age and transplant status influenced survival. The unadjusted hazard of death
increased by 3% for every 1-year increase in age and was increased by 7% if the patient did not receive
a transplant, and overall 22% (n=72) of the entire cohort eventually received transplants.
This study reports an approximate 65% mortality at 5 years in Maltese haemodialysis patients, a poor
prognosis that, despite optimal medical management, is consistent with worldwide reports.peer-reviewe