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A ground-breaking study led by UCL researchers reveals that adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may have shorter life expectancies than their peers without the condition. The research, published in *The British Journal of Psychiatry*, analyzed data from 30,029 diagnosed ADHD adults compared to over 300,000 individuals without ADHD.
Findings indicate a significant reduction in life expectancy—between 4.5 and 9 years for men and 6.5 to 11 years for women. However, only a fraction of adults with ADHD are diagnosed, complicating the study’s interpretation. The researchers note that those who do get diagnosed may have additional health issues, potentially leading to overestimated life expectancy gaps.
Current support systems in the UK are limited, with many adults with ADHD not accessing adequate mental health services. This under-resourcing could hinder effective treatment and improve outcomes, such as reduced mental health problems and substance use.
The study underscores the critical need for better diagnostic rates and integrated care to address the challenges faced by those with ADHD. While many individuals thrive, addressing these challenges is essential for improving health and well-being outcomes. Further research is needed to explore potential causes of underdiagnosis and expand support services to ensure equitable access for all.
Source: https://www.news-medical.net/news/20250123/Adults-with-ADHD-found-to-have-reduced-life-expectancy.aspx