New study suggesting people with ADHD have shorter lifespans should be ‘call to arms,’ lead author says

A recent study conducted in the UK has shed light on the fact that individuals diagnosed with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are living shorter lives than they should. The study’s authors emphasized that the correlation between ADHD and premature death is largely influenced by the availability of education and support services.

According to psychiatrists, it has long been observed that individuals with ADHD have a reduced life expectancy compared to those without the disorder. The study, which delved into mortality data in the UK, revealed that men with ADHD faced a decrease in life expectancy of approximately seven years, while women faced a reduction of around nine years.

Globally, between two to five percent of adults experience symptoms of ADHD, such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. The observational study, published in the British Journal of Psychiatry, analyzed health-care data from over 30,000 adults diagnosed with ADHD compared to 300,000 individuals of the same age and sex without the disorder. While the researchers did not have specific data on the causes of death among the participants, they found that individuals with ADHD generally had shorter lifespans.

The study’s authors highlighted that the shorter lifespans among adults with diagnosed ADHD are likely a result of modifiable risk factors, as well as unmet support and treatment needs for both ADHD and other co-occurring illnesses. Factors such as smoking, substance abuse, and alcohol addiction were identified as potential contributors to the reduced life expectancy in individuals with ADHD.

Dr. Nik Grujich, a psychiatrist at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre in Toronto, pointed out that individuals with ADHD often face additional mental and physical health challenges, which could further impact their longevity. He emphasized the importance of recognizing ADHD as a legitimate medical illness that can compromise life expectancy, urging healthcare providers to improve diagnosis and treatment for individuals with the disorder.

Treatment strategies, including regular exercise, behavioral interventions, and medication, were highlighted as effective ways to support individuals with ADHD. William Harvey, an associate professor of kinesiology at McGill University, emphasized the benefits of physical activity in managing ADHD symptoms. He stressed the importance of encouraging individuals with ADHD to engage in regular exercise to address risk factors and improve overall well-being.

In conclusion, the study’s findings underscore the importance of addressing the unique needs of individuals with ADHD to improve their quality of life and longevity. By implementing tailored support services and treatment interventions, healthcare providers can help individuals with ADHD lead healthier and more fulfilling lives.