Sensory Processing in Individuals With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Compared to Control Populations: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Abstract
OBJECTIVE
In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we evaluated the association between Attention-Deficit/Deficit Hyperactivity (ADHD) and atypical Sensory Processing Patterns (SPPs).
METHOD
We searched PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science from their inception until June 30th, 2024. We included studies examining SPP using questionnaires in participants with a diagnosis of ADHD compared with healthy controls. The study risk of bias was assessed using a modified Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. A random-effects meta-analysis was conducted using R software (Version 4.3.1), considering sensory modulation atypicities severity as the primary outcome. We explored the risk of publication bias and conducted sensitivity analyses to test the robustness of the findings.
RESULTS
After screening 10,750 references, we included 30 studies (reported in 32 publications) encompassing a total of 5,374 participants, with 23 studies focusing on children, and seven on adults. Patients with ADHD presented significantly more severe sensory atypicities than the control group in multiple domains: sensory sensitivity (k=13; SMD=1.17; 5% CI [0.75;1.59]; I2=87%), sensory avoiding (k=11; SMD=1.15; 95% CI [0.66;1.64]; I2=92%), low sensory registration (k=23; SMD=1.22; 95%CI [0.89;1.56]; I2=92%), and sensory seeking (k=15; SMD=1.23; 95%CI [0.48;1.97]; I2=97%). Heterogeneity was high in all analyses. Only nine studies were deemed at overall low risk of bias.
CONCLUSION
Even though available ADHD clinical guidelines…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 5,374 participants or records.
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