Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects how one controls their attention and impulses.

People living with ADHD often struggle with hyperactivity, impulsivity, and an inability to pay attention for long periods.

Does ADHD shorten one’s lifespan?

There is no known evidence that ADHD shortens a person’s lifespan. However, a study published in The Lancet in 2015 found that people diagnosed with ADHD are twice as likely to die young compared to those without the condition.

Moreover, this risk was significantly higher in those with untreated ADHD.

ADHD Medication and Mortality Risk

Several studies have shown that ADHD medication reduces the risk of accidents and injuries that can lead to premature death.

For example, one study examined the mortality rates of people on ADHD medication versus those without, and the results showed that the patients taking ADHD medication had a lower risk of death.

According to the study, “compared with ADHD patients who were not on ADHD medication, the risk of death among patients receiving medication was 31% lower for males and 33% lower for females.”.

ADHD and Substance Abuse

Substance abuse is another concern for people with ADHD. Research has suggested that individuals with ADHD are at a higher risk of developing substance abuse disorders.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) reported that young adults with ADHD are twice as likely to have a substance abuse disorder than their peers without ADHD.

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Furthermore, people with ADHD and substance abuse disorders are at a higher risk of death from drug overdose or other drug-related causes.

Physical Health and ADHD

Physical health concerns are also prevalent in people with ADHD.

Several reports have linked ADHD to obesity, smoking, poor eating habits, and other conditions that increase one’s risk of developing chronic or life-threatening illnesses such as diabetes and heart disease.

For example, a study found that people with ADHD have a higher risk of developing obesity than people without the condition. The researchers found that having ADHD increased the risk of developing obesity by 60 percent.

Conversely, the study found that treating ADHD with medication could reduce the risk of obesity.

The Importance of Early Intervention and Treatment

Early intervention and treatment of ADHD are crucial for reducing the risk of premature death. Studies have shown that early intervention can improve academic, social, and behavioral outcomes for children diagnosed with ADHD.

Treatment for ADHD may include medication, behavioral therapy, or a combination of both. Educating parents, teachers, and children about ADHD can help make life more manageable for people with the condition.

The Bottom Line

ADHD does not directly shorten one’s lifespan. However, people with ADHD are at a higher risk of dying young if the condition is left untreated.

ADHD medication has been shown to reduce the risk of accidents and substance abuse disorders linked to premature death. On the other hand, physical health concerns such as obesity and smoking increase the risk of premature death in people with ADHD.