A recent study has unveiled a concerning link between Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and a significant reduction in life expectancy. The research, which analyzed data from 30,039 individuals aged 18 or older diagnosed with ADHD, indicates that females with the condition die an average of 8.64 years earlier than their peers without ADHD. Males with ADHD face a slightly lower reduction, with an average life expectancy cut short by 6.78 years.
The findings highlight a growing health crisis for those diagnosed with ADHD, who are at a heightened risk for various medical conditions. Among the alarming statistics, 17% of males with ADHD are more likely to develop diabetes, while females face an even greater risk. Additionally, individuals with ADHD have a 27% higher likelihood of hypertension, and they are over twice as likely to suffer from epilepsy and depression.
Despite improvements in the identification of ADHD in adulthood, the study underscores the fact that these individuals still encounter substantial health challenges. They are more than ten times as likely to have a personality disorder and exhibit higher rates of substance abuse. The research suggests that those with ADHD are at increased risk for all 13 medical conditions examined.
The study compared each individual with ADHD to ten matched participants without the diagnosis, controlling for age, sex, and other factors. The results paint a stark picture of the ongoing struggles faced by individuals with ADHD, particularly in the United Kingdom, where specialist support remains limited.
She noted the physiological implications of living with untreated ADHD: “Think of it like keeping your engine revved too high for too long — the constant stress from managing ADHD symptoms can lead to inflammation and throw off stress hormones like cortisol.” This chronic stress can exacerbate existing health issues and contribute to the notable reduction in life expectancy.
According to Dees, one of the researchers involved in the study, “The astonishing life expectancy reduction of 7–9 years shows that more cohesive systems and interventions need to be put in place for support.” He added that despite advances in diagnosing ADHD in adults, many still go undiagnosed, leading to prolonged exposure to risk factors associated with the disorder.
Barry K. Herman, MD, emphasized the broader implications of these findings, stating, “Challenges with work stability often lead to financial stress, which can limit access to good healthcare, time for exercise and leisure, and clean food. Similarly, difficulties maintaining relationships can lead to social isolation. All of these factors are linked to shorter lifespans.”
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