Groundbreaking Research Highlights Serious Health Risks for Adults With ADHD
A first-of-its-kind study has revealed that adults diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may have significantly shorter life expectancies than those without the condition. Experts have called the findings “deeply concerning” and “striking,” urging further research and improved care for those affected.
The study, published in the British Journal of Psychiatry, analysed anonymised medical records from over 30,000 UK adults diagnosed with ADHD and compared them to more than 300,000 individuals without the condition. The data, spanning 2000 to 2019, showed that men with ADHD experienced life expectancy reductions of 4.5 to 9 years, while women with ADHD faced reductions of 6.6 to 11 years.
ADHD, commonly associated with impulsivity, restlessness, and difficulty concentrating, is often diagnosed in childhood but persists into adulthood in many cases. Despite increasing awareness, ADHD remains significantly underdiagnosed in adults, leaving many without essential support and treatment.
Unmet Needs and Health Disparities
Professor Josh Stott, senior author of the study and a clinical psychology expert at University College London, described the findings as “deeply concerning.” He highlighted the lack of support many adults with ADHD face, which often leads to social exclusion, stressful life events, and poor health outcomes.
“People with ADHD can thrive with the right resources and treatment. However, too often they lack the support they need, leading to serious impacts on their physical and mental health,” Stott said.
The study suggests that “modifiable risk factors” are significant contributors to the reduced life expectancy observed in adults with ADHD. These include untreated ADHD symptoms and related health conditions, which could be addressed with better access to healthcare and targeted interventions.
Calls for Further Research and Action
Experts unaffiliated with the study praised its importance but stressed the need for further investigation. Professor Kevin McConway, an applied statistics expert at the Open University, described the findings as “striking” but cautioned that the research raises many unanswered questions.
“The differences in life expectancy between those with and without ADHD are substantial. However, as an observational study, it cannot definitively establish causation,” McConway said. He pointed out the complexity of factors at play and called for additional research to better understand the interplay of health risks associated with ADHD.
Professor Philip Asherson, a molecular psychiatry expert at King’s College London, noted that ADHD is linked to higher rates of smoking, obesity, cardiovascular disease, and cancer, all of which contribute to early mortality. He underscored the importance of improving access to diagnosis and treatment for adults with ADHD.
“ADHD is increasingly recognised as a serious condition in adults, but many still face barriers to care,” Asherson said.
Underdiagnosis: A Widespread Issue
The study also revealed alarming rates of underdiagnosis. During the study period, only one in 300 adults in the UK had an ADHD diagnosis, despite surveys suggesting that one in 30 adults likely has the condition. This indicates that as many as 90% of adults with ADHD remain undiagnosed, leaving their symptoms and associated health risks unaddressed.
Without addressing this significant gap in diagnosis and care, researchers warned, the reduced life expectancy for adults with ADHD is unlikely to improve. They called for urgent action to raise awareness, enhance diagnostic tools, and expand access to effective treatments.
The findings highlight the critical need for healthcare systems to prioritise ADHD in adults, addressing the unmet needs that contribute to health disparities and reduced life expectancy.
