Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 6.1 million children in the United States between the ages of 2 and 17 years old have been diagnosed with ADHD as of 2016. While ADHD can have detrimental effects on individuals’ daily functioning, can it also have a link with mortality?.

The Link Between ADHD and Mortality

Recent studies have shown that individuals with ADHD may have a higher risk of mortality compared to those without ADHD.

A longitudinal study published in the JAMA Network Open analyzed 2,675,615 Swedish individuals, of which 39,200 had ADHD, for a period of up to 24 years. The results showed that individuals with ADHD had a 4.36 times higher risk of premature death. The primary causes of death in individuals with ADHD were accidents, suicide, and substance abuse.

Another study, published in the JAMA Psychiatry, analyzed data from 2,675,260 individuals from Denmark, with 32,362 individuals diagnosed with ADHD.

The results showed that individuals with ADHD had a 2.07 times higher risk of premature death, with the primary causes of death being accidental injury, suicide, and natural causes such as cardiovascular diseases, respiratory diseases, and cancers.

Possible Reasons for the Link

Research has shown that there may be several factors that could make individuals with ADHD more susceptible to mortality.

Firstly, individuals with ADHD may be more likely to engage in risky behaviors such as substance abuse, reckless driving, and unsafe sexual practices. These behaviors could increase the risk of accidents and injuries.

Moreover, individuals with ADHD may be more likely to experience comorbidities such as depression, alcohol use disorder, and anxiety disorder.

These mental health conditions could further increase the risk of substance abuse, suicide, and other causes of death.

Finally, individuals with ADHD may have a higher prevalence of physical health conditions such as cardiovascular diseases and respiratory diseases. These conditions could lead to premature death.

Prevention and Management of ADHD

Given the possible link between ADHD and mortality, it is important to prevent and manage ADHD effectively.

Early diagnosis and treatment of ADHD could help individuals manage their symptoms and decrease the risk of negative outcomes such as accidents, substance abuse, and suicide.

Effective treatment options for ADHD include medication, behavior therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. The most commonly used medications for ADHD are stimulant medications such as methylphenidate and amphetamines.

These medications have been shown to improve attention, focus, and self-control in individuals with ADHD.

Behavior therapy involves working with a therapist to learn behavioral strategies such as time management, organization, and problem-solving skills.

This therapy can help individuals with ADHD manage their symptoms and improve their ability to function in daily life.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) focuses on changing negative thoughts and behaviors that may be contributing to ADHD symptoms. CBT can help individuals develop coping strategies and improve their self-esteem and self-confidence.

Conclusion

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects millions of individuals in the United States.

While ADHD can have a significant impact on individuals’ lives, recent studies have shown that individuals with ADHD may also have a higher risk of mortality compared to those without ADHD. The primary causes of death in individuals with ADHD were accidents, suicide, and substance abuse. It is important to prevent and manage ADHD effectively through early diagnosis and treatment to decrease the risk of negative outcomes.