Individuals diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) face a significantly heightened risk of premature death—about 71% more than those without the condition, as per a recent review published in JAMA Network Open.
Interestingly, the study suggests that using prescription ADHD medication might provide a protective effect, potentially reducing the overall risk of death associated with the disorder.
This review involved an analysis of data from 19 observational studies, incorporating nearly 16 million participants across three continents to explore the long-term outcomes linked to ADHD.
Both unnatural causes of death, like injuries and suicide, and natural causes, such as various physical health issues including cardiovascular disease and diabetes, were examined.
The findings revealed that people with ADHD exhibited higher mortality rates across all these categories compared to their non-ADHD counterparts.
According to Joshua Stott, a senior author and professor from University College London, there’s clear evidence that the health disparities experienced by those with ADHD are extensive. He noted, “We found that people with ADHD face an increased risk not only of death by suicide and injury, but also of deaths by natural causes.”
Specifically, the risk of dying by suicide was almost doubled for those with ADHD, with a striking 89% increase. Additionally, the danger of dying from injuries—either intentional or accidental—was elevated by 55%.
The review also highlighted a 27% higher risk of natural causes of death in those diagnosed with ADHD. This increased risk often correlated with long-term health issues such as smoking and substance abuse. There are also challenges associated with executive functioning, which can complicate the management of chronic health conditions and adherence to treatment plans.
In certain analyses, the researchers investigated how medical treatment influenced overall mortality rates. Among ADHD individuals, those who took prescribed medication displayed a 25% lower risk of death from any cause compared to those not on medication, hinting that effective treatment could help mitigate some associated health risks.
Despite the findings, it’s crucial to acknowledge the limitations of the research. All the studies included were observational, meaning they indicate associations rather than direct causation.
It’s worth noting that the specific findings regarding ADHD medication were derived from just three out of the 19 studies, raising questions about the robustness of that particular conclusion.
Moreover, individual study results varied widely, influenced by different diagnostic criteria and healthcare access, while factors like socioeconomic status and mental health conditions weren’t consistently controlled across the data examined.
In closing, Lucy Corrigan, the first author and a research assistant at the University of Liverpool, emphasized that while these findings suggest medication might play an important role in supporting the health of individuals with ADHD, further research is necessary for a clearer understanding. She added, “Medication is just part of the story; many people with ADHD benefit from comprehensive, long-term treatment and support.”
