A new study has uncovered alarming health disparities for adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The research shows that adults with ADHD may have a significantly shorter life expectancy compared to those without the condition. Experts describe the findings as “deeply concerning” and “striking.”
Study Reveals Life Expectancy Gap
Published in the British Journal of Psychiatry, the study analyzed health records from over 30,000 UK adults diagnosed with ADHD. These records were compared with data from more than 300,000 adults without the diagnosis.
The study spanned two decades (2000–2019) and revealed stark differences in life expectancy. Men with ADHD lived 4.5 to 9 years less on average, while women faced reductions of 6.6 to 11 years.
ADHD is typically diagnosed in childhood and is characterized by difficulties in concentration, impulsivity, and restlessness. Although awareness of adult ADHD has grown, the condition remains underdiagnosed and untreated in many cases.
Unmet Needs and Modifiable Risks
Professor Josh Stott, senior author of the study and clinical psychology expert at University College London, called the findings “deeply concerning.” He highlighted the role of unmet needs in reducing life expectancy.
“People with ADHD can thrive with the right support and treatment, but many lack access to essential resources,” Stott explained. Adults with ADHD often face higher levels of social exclusion, stress, and untreated health issues, which worsen their overall health.
The researchers identified modifiable risks, such as untreated ADHD symptoms and associated health conditions, as major contributors to shorter life expectancy. Addressing these risks could significantly improve outcomes for those with ADHD.
Experts Call for Action
Independent experts have praised the study for its importance but caution that it raises further questions.
Professor Kevin McConway, emeritus professor of applied statistics at the Open University, described the findings as “striking” but emphasized their complexity.
“The differences in life expectancy between those diagnosed and not diagnosed with ADHD are substantial. However, this is an observational study, and the factors involved are highly complex,” McConway said.
Professor Philip Asherson, a molecular psychiatry expert at King’s College London, added that adults with ADHD are more likely to experience health risks such as smoking, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. These factors likely contribute to the reduced life expectancy.
“ADHD is increasingly recognized as a serious condition in adults, but access to diagnosis and treatment remains limited,” Asherson stated. He stressed the urgent need for better resources and care.
The Challenge of Underdiagnosis
The study revealed that only one in 300 adults in the UK had an ADHD diagnosis during the study period. Surveys suggest the true prevalence is closer to one in 30, meaning up to 90% of adults with ADHD remain undiagnosed.
“Without addressing underdiagnosis, the shorter life expectancy for adults with ADHD is unlikely to change,” Asherson warned.
The findings highlight the urgent need for increased awareness, expanded access to diagnosis and treatment, and further research. Addressing these challenges could improve health outcomes and extend life expectancy for adults with ADHD.