The future of ADHD episode artwork

EPISODE · Jan 16, 2026 · 32 MIN

The future of ADHD

from The Future of Everything · host Yair Bannett, Russ Altman

Pediatrician Yair Bannett studies and treats ADHD in preschool-age children. His interests stem from watching too many families struggle to understand their child’s behavior. He now focuses on improving frontline care using artificial intelligence to analyze electronic health records. One recent study explored whether doctors are making appropriate non-drug interventions before choosing to medicate children. Through his research, he hopes to raise the standard of ADHD care for thousands – and perhaps millions – of children. Early diagnosis and better care can prevent later problems, Bannett tells host Russ Altman on this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast.Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your question. You can send questions to [email protected] Reference Links:Stanford Profile: ​​Yair BannettConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / FacebookChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionRuss Altman introduces guest Yair Bannett, a developmental behavioral pediatrician at Stanford University.(00:03:44) Why Study ADHDYair’s path from primary care pediatrics to ADHD research.(00:04:32) Understanding ADHDThe core symptoms and diagnostic criteria for ADHD.(00:05:57) Diagnosing ADHD in YouthWhy diagnosis is challenging and relies on clinical judgment.(00:08:21) Known Causes of ADHDWhat is known about biological origins and environmental influence.(00:10:08) Geographic and Cultural DifferencesThe variations in ADHD prevalence across regions and populations.(00:11:37) ADHD Across CountriesPrevalence of ADHD globally and challenges with monitoring diagnosis.(00:12:23) Natural History of Untreated ADHDThe lifelong persistence of ADHD and associated risks when untreated.(00:14:28) ADHD Diagnosis in AdultsThe challenges in identifying and diagnosing ADHD later in life.(00:16:27) ADHD TreatmentsAn overview of the two treatment interventions used to treat ADHD.(00:18:16) Stimulant MedicationsThe effectiveness and long-term benefits of stimulant treatments.(00:21:30) Non-Stimulant MedicationsWhen and why alternative medications for ADHD are used.(00:22:31) Non-pharmacological InterventionsThe alternative interventions used outside pharmacological treatments.(00:23:18) Reducing Household ChaosStrategies for structure and behavior management within the home.(00:24:55) Measuring Quality of ADHD CareUsing electronic health records and AI to improve treatment.(00:28:10) Importance of Early DiagnosisThe benefits of identifying ADHD before school entry.(00:29:29) Future In a MinuteRapid-fire Q&A: applying AI, collaboration, and theatre dreams.(00:31:55) Conclusion Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How early diagnosis and treatment of ADHD can potentially shape lifelong outcomes.

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The future of ADHD

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This episode was published on January 16, 2026.

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Pediatrician Yair Bannett studies and treats ADHD in preschool-age children. His interests stem from watching too many families struggle to understand their child’s behavior. He now focuses on improving frontline care using artificial intelligence...

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