Adults and children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have a much higher risk of early death than those without the condition. A new review in JAMA Network Open found that people with ADHD have about a 71% higher risk of dying early, but prescription treatment may help lower this risk.
Researchers reviewed 19 studies that included almost 16 million people from three continents to learn about the long-term health effects of ADHD. They studied both unnatural causes of death, like accidents and suicide, as well as natural causes such as diabetes and heart disease.
The results show that the risk of death is higher in several ways. People with ADHD were 89% more likely to die by suicide. Their risk of dying from injuries, like car accidents, was 55% higher. They also had a 27% higher risk of dying from natural health problems.
Experts say these health risks are linked to factors like higher rates of substance use and smoking. People with ADHD may also have trouble managing chronic illnesses, keeping medical appointments, and following treatment plans because of challenges with executive function.
But the data also showed some hope. Another analysis found that people taking prescribed ADHD medication had a 25% lower risk of dying from any cause compared to those not taking medication. This suggests that proper care can help reduce these risks.
Senior author Joshua Stott, a professor at University College London, said that ADHD is not necessarily life-limiting if people get the right care. However, the authors noted some important points. Since the research was observational, the results show links but not direct cause and effect.
Also, the findings on medication came from only three studies, so these results are still early. Researchers say that while medication helps, people with ADHD need long-term, comprehensive support.