By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD, is well-documented as a problem in children but it can persist into adulthood in at least thirty percent of cases.

The overall percentage is that three to four percent of the adult population has ADHD.

The biggest barrier to treatment in adults is making the proper diagnosis. Physicians need to be alert to the issue and there are tests that can help. For instance a rating scale that takes five minutes to complete can help.

There are treatments. For adults, clinical guidelines recommend stimulants as effective treatment as well as the use of antidepressants. Treatment with a therapist can be helpful along with medications. However, I need to reinforce the point that the most important step is making the diagnosis.