Further evidence of the health effect of ADHD beyond the academic function: A new study published in the journal The British Journal of Psychiatry has found a link between ADHD (ADHD) and the shortening of life expectancy in adults. The study, conducted by UCL University researchers, analyzed anonymous data from information reservoirs of about 30,029 adults in the UK diagnosed with ADHD, comparing them to a 300,390 adult control group without this disorder.
The study finds that men with ADHD may live between 4.5 and 9 years less than men in the control group, while women with ADHD may experience a decrease in the life expectancy of 6.5 to 11 years compared to women without attention deficit.
The researchers explained that the reasons for shortening life expectancy may include the difficulty of people with ADHD to manage their situation. Lack of appropriate diagnosis, treatment and support can lead to stressful events in life, social exclusion, a decrease in self -worth, and a higher proportion of mental and physical health problems.
For example, a national survey conducted in the UK indicated that a third of adults with ADHD symptoms received mental or drug treatment, compared to only 11% of the population without ADHD. It was also found that almost 8% of adults with ADHD symptoms sought mental health care over the past year but did not receive it, compared to only 1% of adults without the disorder.
The researchers emphasized that the study has significant limitations. First, the database used did not include information on the causes of death, so it is not possible to determine which medical or other factors can be attributed to the shortening of life expectancy. Second, ADHD’s diagnostic rate among adults is significantly lower than what could be expected. The study included only those who were actually diagnosed, which may lead to the over-assessment of the life expectancy gaps, as this group may include mainly people with related morbidity or other neurotransmitters.
“There are reports of a connection between attention deficit and shorter life expectancy,” explains Professor Iris Manor, a pediatric psychiatric expert and manages a clinic in general health services. “People with ADHD are more prone to accidents and suicide, heart disease and metabolic diseases, and even an increased risk of dementia.”
According to Prof. Manor, studies have pointed to a common genetic factor that increases the sensitivity of those suffering from ADHD: “This factor communicates with their immune sensitivity and allergy. Attention disorders are important to be aware of the risks.