ADHD Linked to Increased Risk of Early Death, Study Reveals Protective Role of Medication

According to a study published in JAMA Network Open, individuals diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are at a 71% higher risk of early death compared to those without ADHD. Observational data from 19 studies involving nearly 16 million people across three continents explored the long-term impacts of ADHD.

People with ADHD face an increased risk not only of death by suicide and injury, but also of deaths by natural causes, adding to evidence that health inequalities faced by people with ADHD are broad and wide-ranging. – Joshua Stott, University College London.

The evaluation considered both unnatural causes of death, such as injuries and suicide, and natural causes like cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Among individuals with ADHD, a heightened mortality rate was observed across all categories.

The study found an 89% increased risk of death by suicide and a 55% heightened risk of death due to intentional or unintentional injuries, including traffic accidents. Additionally, a 27% elevated risk of death from natural causes was linked to long-term health issues such as smoking and substance use.

There is evidence suggesting that prescribed ADHD medication can reduce the risk of death. For those taking medication, there was a 25% lower risk of mortality from any cause compared to those not using medication. This indicates that effective treatment might lessen some behavioral impacts and health risks associated with ADHD.

Despite the significant findings, researchers pointed out essential limitations in the study. The studies reviewed were observational, hence showing associations rather than direct cause-and-effect. The findings on medication were based on a smaller subset of the overall studies, requiring further research to clarify these results.

Our findings provide early evidence to suggest that medication may play an important role in supporting the health of people with ADHD, but this is based on a small number of studies and further research is needed to clarify this link. – Lucy Corrigan, University of Liverpool.

Comprehensive treatment and support remain crucial for those living with ADHD to ensure they can lead long and healthy lives.