ADHD linked to significantly higher mortality risk, study finds

A large-scale meta-analysis conducted by researchers at University College London has found that individuals diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) face a significantly higher risk of death compared to those without the condition. Analyzing data from 19 studies involving approximately 16 million people, the research indicates an overall mortality risk increase of approximately 70 to 71 percent.

The study identifies specific drivers for this elevated risk. Suicide-related deaths showed the highest relative risk increase, with a 90 percent higher risk reported. Additionally, deaths from external causes, such as accidental injuries and trauma, were significantly higher at 55 percent. Deaths from natural causes were also found to be 27 percent more likely.

Researchers noted that the increased risk may be linked to symptoms such as impulse control difficulties and challenges in maintaining healthy behaviors like diet and exercise. The findings also highlight that adults with ADHD are nearly three times more likely to experience depression and face higher rates of societal stigma.

Importantly, the analysis suggests that pharmacological treatment for ADHD may help mitigate these risks, particularly regarding deaths from external causes. One related finding noted that women with ADHD could face a reduction in life expectancy of up to 11 years, while men could face a reduction of up to nine years.