Compared to national averages, learning disorders and ADHD are more prevalent in the 4-county service area (Charleston, Dorchester, Berkeley and Colleton counties). A reported 7,424 children and 17,857 adults in three counties studied (C,B,D)* have been diagnosed with ADHD, while an estimated 15% of the population has a learning disability. Eight percent of school children have dyslexia, and by the age of 17, only 5% of Tri-County teenagers can read and comprehend the Science section of the newspaper.
*Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, 2003
