Materiały źródłowe

• #1 About ADHD – Symptoms, Causes and Treatment – CHADD

  https://chadd.org/about-adhd/overview/

  Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting 11 percent of school-age children. Symptoms continue into adulthood in more than three-quarters of cases. ADHD is characterized by developmentally inappropriate levels of inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity. […] Despite multiple studies, researchers have yet to determine the exact causes of ADHD. However, scientists have discovered a strong genetic link since ADHD can run in families. More than 20 genetic studies have shown evidence that ADHD is strongly inherited. Yet ADHD is a complex disorder, which is the result of multiple interacting genes. […] Other factors in the environment may increase the likelihood of having ADHD: exposure to lead or pesticides in early childhood, premature birth or low birth weight, brain injury.

• #2 What causes attention deficit hyperactivity disorder?

  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3927422/

  Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects around 13% of children. ADHD is highly heritable, although there is no single causal risk factor and non-inherited factors also contribute to its aetiology. The genetic and environmental risk factors that have been implicated appear to be associated with a range of neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric outcomes, not just ADHD. ADHD, like other common medical and psychiatric disorders, is influenced by multiple genes, non-inherited factors and their interplay. There is no single cause of ADHD and exposure to a risk factor does not necessarily result in disorder. This means that any given risk factor will only be observed in a proportion of cases and will also be found in those who are unaffected. Also, risk factors that contribute to the origins of ADHD might not necessarily be the same as those that influence its course and outcomes. A further complexity is that genetic factors can exert indirect risk effects through interplay with environmental factors. Genes can alter sensitivity to environmental risks (gene-environment interaction), for example, environmental toxins or psychosocial adversity. Inherited factors can also influence the probability of exposure to certain environmental risks (gene-environment correlation). There is robust evidence from a wide range of study designs of a strong inherited contribution to ADHD. Family studies have consistently found higher rates of ADHD in parents and siblings of affected probands compared with relatives of unaffected controls. Twin studies have shown that monozygotic twin pairs have much higher concordance rates for ADHD than dizygotic twin pairs. ADHD also appears to share an inherited liability with other neurodevelopmental and psychiatric problems, notably ASDs, developmental coordination problems, reading ability, IQ, conduct and mood problems. These findings suggest the same inherited and familial risks can result in the manifestation of different clinical phenotypes. ADHD, like other common medical and psychiatric disorders, is influenced by multiple genes, non-inherited factors and their interplay. There is no single cause of ADHD and exposure to a risk factor does not necessarily result in disorder. This means that any given risk factor will only be observed in a proportion of cases and will also be found in those who are unaffected. Also, risk factors that contribute to the origins of ADHD might not necessarily be the same as those that influence its course and outcomes. Inherited factors are not the only explanation of ADHD. Although there are a number of environmental risk factors that are associated with ADHD, identifying which of these are causal is challenging. This is because many observed associations might arise as a result of symptoms/disorder in the child or the parent (reverse causation) or from unmeasured confounders that can include inherited factors. Specific environmental exposures that seem to have relevance to the ADHD phenotype include organic pollutants and lead. These may damage cognitive and neural systems known to be implicated in ADHD.

• #3 ADHD: Why Diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is Rising  | Brown University Health

  https://www.brownhealth.org/be-well/adhd-why-diagnosis-attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-rising

  ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is a common condition that has steadily been on the increase in both children and adults. […] The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders of childhood. […] Data from the National Survey of Childrens Health reports that ADHD currently affects nearly six million children in the United States more than one in 11 children. […] While the causes of ADHD remain unknown, researchers believe genetics plays a key role. In addition, other potential causes and risk factors may include brain injury, environmental risks such as lead exposure, alcohol and tobacco use during pregnancy, premature birth, and low birth weight.

• #4 Psychiatry.org – What is ADHD?

  https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/adhd/what-is-adhd

  Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common mental disorders affecting children. Symptoms of ADHD include inattention (not being able to keep focus), hyperactivity (excess movement that is not fitting to the setting) and impulsivity (hasty acts that occur in the moment without thought). ADHD is considered a chronic and debilitating disorder and is known to impact the individual in many aspects of their life including academic and professional achievements, interpersonal relationships, and daily functioning (Harpin, 2005). ADHD can lead to poor self-esteem and social function in children when not appropriately treated (Harpin et al., 2016). […] Scientists have not yet identified the specific causes of ADHD. While there is growing evidence that genetics contribute to ADHD and several genes have been linked to the disorder, no specific gene or gene combination has been identified as the cause of the disorder. However, it is important to note that relatives of individuals with ADHD are often also affected. There is evidence of anatomical differences in the brains of children with ADHD in comparison to other children without the condition. For instance, children with ADHD have reduced grey and white brain matter volume and demonstrate different brain region activation during certain tasks (Pliszka, 2007). Further studies have indicated that the frontal lobes, caudate nucleus, and cerebellar vermis of the brain are affected in ADHD (Tripp Wickens, 2009). Several non-genetic factors have also been linked to the disorder such as low birth weight, premature birth, exposure to toxins (alcohol, smoking, lead, etc.) during pregnancy, and extreme stress during pregnancy.

• #5 ADHD in children and youth: Part 1—Etiology, diagnosis, and comorbidity | Canadian Paediatric Society

  https://cps.ca/documents/position/adhd-etiology-diagnosis-and-comorbidity

  Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a chronic neurodevelopmental disorder. ADHD is a disorder with multiple etiologies. Combinations of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors contribute to pathogenesis and its heterogeneous phenotype. Evidence from family, twin, and adoption studies has suggested strongly that ADHD is a highly hereditary, polygenic disorder. Gene variants predicting risk for ADHD are important for brain development, cell migration, and encoding for catecholamine receptor and transporter genes. The identification of gene sets affecting neurotransmitter pathways in the brain has suggested that rare copy number variants or the accumulation of larger deletions and duplications influencing gene transcription are more commonly found in individuals with ADHD. Noninherited neurological factors affecting brain development or resulting in brain injury have been implicated in ADHD pathogenesis. The contribution of pregnancy and birth complications is mixed, but strong evidence supports greater ADHD risk following in utero exposure to alcohol or tobacco and low birth weight. Exposure to environmental toxins (specifically lead, organophosphate pesticides, and polychlorinated biphenyls) has been linked to ADHD symptoms. Neuroimaging studies point to ADHD as a disorder of early brain development. Based on volumetric and functional MRI studies, differences are found in the structural development and functional activation in the prefrontal cortex, basal ganglia, anterior cingulate cortex, and cerebellum. A delay in cortical maturation has been documented, with peak cortical thickness attained in the cerebrum at 7 years in typically developing children and at 10 years in those with ADHD. ADHD prevalence in the paediatric population has been stable over the past three decades except in the USA, where it has increased. ADHD is associated with significant adverse outcomes in childhood and adolescence: educational problems, difficult peer relationships, and increased rates of motor vehicle accidents, accidental injuries, and substance misuse. Current estimates show that 50% of children with ADHD continue to have symptoms of ADHD in adolescence and adulthood. Predictors of persistence include combined inattention/hyperactivity, increased symptom severity, comorbid major depressive or other mood disorder, high comorbidity, parental anxiety, and parental antisocial personality disorder.

• #6 What causes attention deficit hyperactivity disorder?

  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3927422/

  Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects around 13% of children. ADHD is highly heritable, although there is no single causal risk factor and non-inherited factors also contribute to its aetiology. The genetic and environmental risk factors that have been implicated appear to be associated with a range of neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric outcomes, not just ADHD. ADHD, like other common medical and psychiatric disorders, is influenced by multiple genes, non-inherited factors and their interplay. There is no single cause of ADHD and exposure to a risk factor does not necessarily result in disorder. This means that any given risk factor will only be observed in a proportion of cases and will also be found in those who are unaffected. Also, risk factors that contribute to the origins of ADHD might not necessarily be the same as those that influence its course and outcomes. A further complexity is that genetic factors can exert indirect risk effects through interplay with environmental factors. Genes can alter sensitivity to environmental risks (gene-environment interaction), for example, environmental toxins or psychosocial adversity. Inherited factors can also influence the probability of exposure to certain environmental risks (gene-environment correlation). There is robust evidence from a wide range of study designs of a strong inherited contribution to ADHD. Family studies have consistently found higher rates of ADHD in parents and siblings of affected probands compared with relatives of unaffected controls. Twin studies have shown that monozygotic twin pairs have much higher concordance rates for ADHD than dizygotic twin pairs. ADHD also appears to share an inherited liability with other neurodevelopmental and psychiatric problems, notably ASDs, developmental coordination problems, reading ability, IQ, conduct and mood problems. These findings suggest the same inherited and familial risks can result in the manifestation of different clinical phenotypes. ADHD, like other common medical and psychiatric disorders, is influenced by multiple genes, non-inherited factors and their interplay. There is no single cause of ADHD and exposure to a risk factor does not necessarily result in disorder. This means that any given risk factor will only be observed in a proportion of cases and will also be found in those who are unaffected. Also, risk factors that contribute to the origins of ADHD might not necessarily be the same as those that influence its course and outcomes. Inherited factors are not the only explanation of ADHD. Although there are a number of environmental risk factors that are associated with ADHD, identifying which of these are causal is challenging. This is because many observed associations might arise as a result of symptoms/disorder in the child or the parent (reverse causation) or from unmeasured confounders that can include inherited factors. Specific environmental exposures that seem to have relevance to the ADHD phenotype include organic pollutants and lead. These may damage cognitive and neural systems known to be implicated in ADHD.

• #7 What Are the Causes of ADHD?

  https://www.verywellmind.com/what-causes-adhd-20465

  ADHD is primarily a hereditary disorder. It is estimated that the percentage of genetic contribution to ADHD is an estimated 74%. […] Despite this strong genetic link, having ADHD doesn’t automatically mean you’ll pass it on to your child. This is because it is a combination of genes and environmental factors that determine whether a child develops ADHD. […] A small percentage of people experience ADHD symptoms as a result of brain damage, such as an early brain injury, trauma, or another impediment to normal brain development. […] Being exposed to certain environmental toxins during childhood can increase the risk that a child will develop ADHD. […] A gestational parent’s health and habits during pregnancy can also play a role in the development of ADHD. Poor nutrition and infections during pregnancy can increase the risk of ADHD, for example.

• #8 Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder – Wikipedia

  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Attention_deficit_hyperactivity_disorder

  ADHD arises from maldevelopment in brain regions such as the prefrontal cortex, basal ganglia and anterior cingulate cortex, which regulate the executive functions necessary for human self-regulation. […] The precise causes of ADHD are unknown in most individual cases. […] Meta-analyses have shown that the disorder is primarily genetic with a heritability rate of 70-80%, where risk factors are highly accumulative. […] The environmental risks are not related to social or familial factors; they exert their effects very early in life, in the prenatal or early postnatal period. […] However, in rare cases, ADHD can be caused by a single event including traumatic brain injury, exposure to biohazards during pregnancy, or a major genetic mutation. […] ADHD arises from brain maldevelopment especially in the prefrontal executive networks that can arise either from genetic factors (different gene variants and mutations for building and regulating such networks) or from acquired disruptions to the development of these networks and regions involved in executive functioning and self-regulation.

• #9 What are the causes of ADHD? Biology vs. environment

  https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/causes-of-adhd

  Researchers do not know the exact cause of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, they believe it may develop from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. […] Many studies suggest a strong link between genetic factors and ADHD, but this is not the only thing that appears to contribute to it. […] ADHD tends to run in families. Identical twins are more likely to develop ADHD than nonidentical twins. This suggests a genetic component to the condition, as identical twins have the same genes while nonidentical twins do not. […] Genes may account for 74% of the cause of ADHD. […] ADHD also appears to cause or originate from changes in the brain. […] The differences in brain volume were more noticeable in children with ADHD than in adults. This supports the researchers theory that ADHD causes a delay in the development and maturation of several brain regions.

• #10 Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

  https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4784-attention-deficithyperactivity-disorder-adhd

  ADHD is genetic. This means your child is born with certain gene changes that cause differences in their brain development (neurodivergence). Often, the gene changes that cause ADHD are passed down within biological families. Kids with ADHD commonly have biological parents or siblings with the condition. […] Experts believe that some people have genes that predispose them to ADHD. In other words, the genes make ADHD a possibility for that person. But then, certain environmental factors tip the scales and cause ADHD to develop. […] Environmental risk factors include: Exposure to certain toxins during fetal development, including tobacco, alcohol or lead. Low birth weight (the lower the weight, the higher the risk). Preterm birth.

• #11 ADHD Causes & Risk Factors: Genetics, Biology, and More

  https://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/adhd-causes

  No one knows exactly what causes ADHD, but certain things are known to play a role. […] ADHD runs in families. Anywhere from one-third to one-half of parents with ADHD will have a child with the disorder. There are genetic characteristics that seem to be passed down. […] If a parent has ADHD, a child has more than a 50% chance of having it. If an older sibling has it, a child has more than a 30% chance. […] Children born with a low birth weight, born premature, or whose mothers had difficult pregnancies have a higher risk of having ADHD. The same is true for children with head injuries to the frontal lobe of the brain, the area that controls impulses and emotions. […] Studies show that pregnant women who smoke or drink alcohol may have a higher risk of having a child with ADHD. Exposure to lead, PCBs, or pesticides may also have a role.

• #12 ADHD Causes & Risk Factors: Genetics, Biology, and More

  https://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/adhd-causes

  No one knows exactly what causes ADHD, but certain things are known to play a role. […] ADHD runs in families. Anywhere from one-third to one-half of parents with ADHD will have a child with the disorder. There are genetic characteristics that seem to be passed down. […] If a parent has ADHD, a child has more than a 50% chance of having it. If an older sibling has it, a child has more than a 30% chance. […] Children born with a low birth weight, born premature, or whose mothers had difficult pregnancies have a higher risk of having ADHD. The same is true for children with head injuries to the frontal lobe of the brain, the area that controls impulses and emotions. […] Studies show that pregnant women who smoke or drink alcohol may have a higher risk of having a child with ADHD. Exposure to lead, PCBs, or pesticides may also have a role.

• #13

  https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/adhd/Pages/Causes-of-ADHD.aspx

  Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurobiologic condition whose symptoms are also dependent on the child’s environment. […] ADHD may be caused by a number of things: […] A lower level of activity in the parts of the brain that control attention and activity level may be associated with ADHD. […] ADHD frequently runs in families. A child with ADHD has a 1 in 4 chance of having a parent with ADHD. […] Significant head injuries may cause ADHD in some cases. […] Prematurity increases the risk of developing ADHD. […] Prenatal exposures, such as alcohol or nicotine from smoking, increase the risk of developing ADHD. […] In very rare cases, toxins in the environment may lead to ADHD.

• #14 ADHD in children – Symptoms checklist, How to notice, and Treatments | MedPark Hospital

  https://www.medparkhospital.com/en-US/disease-and-treatment/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-in-children

  ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by dysfunction in the developing forebrain of the central nervous system, which makes certain chemicals with roles in the control of concentration, attentiveness, or inhibition. […] ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is caused by the low levels of the neurotransmitters released into the forebrain, such as dopamine or norepinephrine, which control attention span and self-control, both physically and mentally. The causes of ADHD include the following: […] The most important factor found to increase a child’s risk of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder by up to 57% is whether the father or mother has a history of the condition. […] Prenatal exposure to chemicals or the accumulation of heavy metals, such as lead, in the body […] Smoking, drinking alcohol, or using drugs while pregnant are all risk factors that can increase the risk of ADHD in the fetus. […] Premature birth and low birth weight babies have a high likelihood that a child will develop ADHD. They are more likely to have learning disorders too.

• #15 The 3 Causes of ADHD — She’s Not Misbehaving, She’s Learning

  https://www.newhavenrtc.com/adhd-treatment/adhd-causes/

  There are three causes of ADHD symptoms: genetics, biology, and chemistry. Learning about these causes helps families understand that their daughter is not doing these behaviors intentionally. […] ADHD is not a random disorder. It is not caused by sugar, or television, or lack of discipline. Ninety percent of people with ADHD have inherited it from one or both parents. In most of these cases, more than one person in a family will have ADHD, and sometimes the whole family will have the disorder! The other ten percent with ADHD have suffered a traumatic brain injury or had an illness that affected the brain. […] Children with ADHD have a frontal lobe that is developing slower than their peers. This impacts much of their day-to-day life and includes even more than what’s mentioned above. Its also instrumental in understanding cause-and-effect, changing habits, long-term memory, and reading social cues.

• #16 Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf

  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441838/

  Attention hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a psychiatric condition that has long been recognized as affecting children’s ability to function. Individuals suffering from this disorder show patterns of developmentally inappropriate levels of inattentiveness, hyperactivity, or impulsivity. […] The etiology of ADHD is related to a variety of factors that include both a genetic and an environmental component. It is one of the most heritable conditions in terms of psychiatric disorders. There is a much greater concordance in monozygotic twins than dizygotic. Siblings have twice the risk of having ADHD than the general population. Similarly, viral infections, smoking during pregnancy, nutritional deficiency, and alcohol exposure in the fetus have also been explored as possible causes of the disorder.

• #17 About ADHD – Symptoms, Causes and Treatment – CHADD

  https://chadd.org/about-adhd/overview/

  Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting 11 percent of school-age children. Symptoms continue into adulthood in more than three-quarters of cases. ADHD is characterized by developmentally inappropriate levels of inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity. […] Despite multiple studies, researchers have yet to determine the exact causes of ADHD. However, scientists have discovered a strong genetic link since ADHD can run in families. More than 20 genetic studies have shown evidence that ADHD is strongly inherited. Yet ADHD is a complex disorder, which is the result of multiple interacting genes. […] Other factors in the environment may increase the likelihood of having ADHD: exposure to lead or pesticides in early childhood, premature birth or low birth weight, brain injury.

• #18 The Top Causes of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder ADHD-BED Integrated®

  https://adhd.clinic/news-research/the-top-causes-of-attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder/

  ADHD has a strong neurobiological basis, which means that many of the deficits caused by the disorder can be explained by certain complex atypicalities of the structure and function of the ADHD brain. […] Currently, the exact cause of ADHD is unknown. However, studies have found that not one factor is the sole cause of ADHD. There are multiple risk factors that may increase the chances of a child developing ADHD. These risk factors include genetic factors and environmental factors. […] ADHD has a high heritability, which means if a parent has been diagnosed with ADHD, it is highly likely that their child would have ADHD as well. Thus, genetics have long been linked to being a risk factor for ADHD. Genetic studies have found that the interaction of more than one gene could be contributing towards the development of ADHD.

• #19 Psychiatry.org – What is ADHD?

  https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/adhd/what-is-adhd

  Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common mental disorders affecting children. Symptoms of ADHD include inattention (not being able to keep focus), hyperactivity (excess movement that is not fitting to the setting) and impulsivity (hasty acts that occur in the moment without thought). ADHD is considered a chronic and debilitating disorder and is known to impact the individual in many aspects of their life including academic and professional achievements, interpersonal relationships, and daily functioning (Harpin, 2005). ADHD can lead to poor self-esteem and social function in children when not appropriately treated (Harpin et al., 2016). […] Scientists have not yet identified the specific causes of ADHD. While there is growing evidence that genetics contribute to ADHD and several genes have been linked to the disorder, no specific gene or gene combination has been identified as the cause of the disorder. However, it is important to note that relatives of individuals with ADHD are often also affected. There is evidence of anatomical differences in the brains of children with ADHD in comparison to other children without the condition. For instance, children with ADHD have reduced grey and white brain matter volume and demonstrate different brain region activation during certain tasks (Pliszka, 2007). Further studies have indicated that the frontal lobes, caudate nucleus, and cerebellar vermis of the brain are affected in ADHD (Tripp Wickens, 2009). Several non-genetic factors have also been linked to the disorder such as low birth weight, premature birth, exposure to toxins (alcohol, smoking, lead, etc.) during pregnancy, and extreme stress during pregnancy.

• #20 Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Background, Pathophysiology, Epidemiology

  https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/289350-overview

  Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a developmental condition of inattention and distractibility, with or without accompanying hyperactivity. There are 3 basic forms of ADHD described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) of the American Psychiatric Association: inattentive; hyperactive-impulsive; and combined. […] The pathology of ADHD is not clear. Psychostimulants (which facilitate dopamine release) and noradrenergic tricyclics used to treat this condition have led to speculation that certain brain areas related to attention are deficient in neural transmission. […] The neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine have been associated with ADHD. […] The underlying brain regions predominantly thought to be involved are frontal and prefrontal; the parietal lobe and cerebellum may also be involved.

• #21 ADHD in children and youth: Part 1—Etiology, diagnosis, and comorbidity | Canadian Paediatric Society

  https://cps.ca/documents/position/adhd-etiology-diagnosis-and-comorbidity

  Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a chronic neurodevelopmental disorder. ADHD is a disorder with multiple etiologies. Combinations of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors contribute to pathogenesis and its heterogeneous phenotype. Evidence from family, twin, and adoption studies has suggested strongly that ADHD is a highly hereditary, polygenic disorder. Gene variants predicting risk for ADHD are important for brain development, cell migration, and encoding for catecholamine receptor and transporter genes. The identification of gene sets affecting neurotransmitter pathways in the brain has suggested that rare copy number variants or the accumulation of larger deletions and duplications influencing gene transcription are more commonly found in individuals with ADHD. Noninherited neurological factors affecting brain development or resulting in brain injury have been implicated in ADHD pathogenesis. The contribution of pregnancy and birth complications is mixed, but strong evidence supports greater ADHD risk following in utero exposure to alcohol or tobacco and low birth weight. Exposure to environmental toxins (specifically lead, organophosphate pesticides, and polychlorinated biphenyls) has been linked to ADHD symptoms. Neuroimaging studies point to ADHD as a disorder of early brain development. Based on volumetric and functional MRI studies, differences are found in the structural development and functional activation in the prefrontal cortex, basal ganglia, anterior cingulate cortex, and cerebellum. A delay in cortical maturation has been documented, with peak cortical thickness attained in the cerebrum at 7 years in typically developing children and at 10 years in those with ADHD. ADHD prevalence in the paediatric population has been stable over the past three decades except in the USA, where it has increased. ADHD is associated with significant adverse outcomes in childhood and adolescence: educational problems, difficult peer relationships, and increased rates of motor vehicle accidents, accidental injuries, and substance misuse. Current estimates show that 50% of children with ADHD continue to have symptoms of ADHD in adolescence and adulthood. Predictors of persistence include combined inattention/hyperactivity, increased symptom severity, comorbid major depressive or other mood disorder, high comorbidity, parental anxiety, and parental antisocial personality disorder.

• #22 Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Children, Adolescents and Teens | Phoenix Children’s Hospital

  https://phoenixchildrens.org/specialties-conditions/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd-children-adolescents-and-teens

  ADHD is one of the most researched areas in child and adolescent mental health. However, the precise cause of the disorder is still unknown. Available evidence suggests that ADHD is genetic. It is a brain-based biological disorder. Low levels of dopamine (a brain chemical), which is a neurotransmitter (a type of brain chemical), are found in children with ADHD. Brain imaging studies using PET scanners (positron emission tomography; a form of brain imaging that makes it possible to observe the human brain at work) show that brain metabolism in children with ADHD is lower in the areas of the brain that control attention, social judgment, and movement. […] Preventive measures to reduce the incidence of ADHD in children are not known at this time. However, early detection and intervention can reduce the severity of symptoms, decrease the interference of behavioral symptoms on school functioning, enhance the child’s normal growth and development, and improve the quality of life experienced by children or adolescents with ADHD.

• #23 Psychiatry.org – What is ADHD?

  https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/adhd/what-is-adhd

  Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common mental disorders affecting children. Symptoms of ADHD include inattention (not being able to keep focus), hyperactivity (excess movement that is not fitting to the setting) and impulsivity (hasty acts that occur in the moment without thought). ADHD is considered a chronic and debilitating disorder and is known to impact the individual in many aspects of their life including academic and professional achievements, interpersonal relationships, and daily functioning (Harpin, 2005). ADHD can lead to poor self-esteem and social function in children when not appropriately treated (Harpin et al., 2016). […] Scientists have not yet identified the specific causes of ADHD. While there is growing evidence that genetics contribute to ADHD and several genes have been linked to the disorder, no specific gene or gene combination has been identified as the cause of the disorder. However, it is important to note that relatives of individuals with ADHD are often also affected. There is evidence of anatomical differences in the brains of children with ADHD in comparison to other children without the condition. For instance, children with ADHD have reduced grey and white brain matter volume and demonstrate different brain region activation during certain tasks (Pliszka, 2007). Further studies have indicated that the frontal lobes, caudate nucleus, and cerebellar vermis of the brain are affected in ADHD (Tripp Wickens, 2009). Several non-genetic factors have also been linked to the disorder such as low birth weight, premature birth, exposure to toxins (alcohol, smoking, lead, etc.) during pregnancy, and extreme stress during pregnancy.

• #24 What are the causes of ADHD? Biology vs. environment

  https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/causes-of-adhd

  According to a 2018 review, functional MRI (fMRI) studies indicate that people with ADHD may have impairments in several brain networks that manage attention, cognitive control, timing, and working memory. […] Some research connects ADHD to complications that affect fetal development during pregnancy, such as prenatal alcohol exposure and prenatal smoking. […] A 2015 study found that children who experienced prenatal alcohol exposure were 1.55 times more likely to have ADHD. […] Psychological trauma may play a role in ADHD, but it is unclear how, or to what extent. […] Children with ACEs are more likely to have ADHD. […] ADHD appears to be something a person has from birth, or that develops in early childhood. […] Researchers are still learning about the causes of ADHD. However, they suspect a combination of genetic and environmental factors increases a persons chances of developing the condition.

• #25 ADHD in children and youth: Part 1—Etiology, diagnosis, and comorbidity | Canadian Paediatric Society

  https://cps.ca/documents/position/adhd-etiology-diagnosis-and-comorbidity

  Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a chronic neurodevelopmental disorder. ADHD is a disorder with multiple etiologies. Combinations of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors contribute to pathogenesis and its heterogeneous phenotype. Evidence from family, twin, and adoption studies has suggested strongly that ADHD is a highly hereditary, polygenic disorder. Gene variants predicting risk for ADHD are important for brain development, cell migration, and encoding for catecholamine receptor and transporter genes. The identification of gene sets affecting neurotransmitter pathways in the brain has suggested that rare copy number variants or the accumulation of larger deletions and duplications influencing gene transcription are more commonly found in individuals with ADHD. Noninherited neurological factors affecting brain development or resulting in brain injury have been implicated in ADHD pathogenesis. The contribution of pregnancy and birth complications is mixed, but strong evidence supports greater ADHD risk following in utero exposure to alcohol or tobacco and low birth weight. Exposure to environmental toxins (specifically lead, organophosphate pesticides, and polychlorinated biphenyls) has been linked to ADHD symptoms. Neuroimaging studies point to ADHD as a disorder of early brain development. Based on volumetric and functional MRI studies, differences are found in the structural development and functional activation in the prefrontal cortex, basal ganglia, anterior cingulate cortex, and cerebellum. A delay in cortical maturation has been documented, with peak cortical thickness attained in the cerebrum at 7 years in typically developing children and at 10 years in those with ADHD. ADHD prevalence in the paediatric population has been stable over the past three decades except in the USA, where it has increased. ADHD is associated with significant adverse outcomes in childhood and adolescence: educational problems, difficult peer relationships, and increased rates of motor vehicle accidents, accidental injuries, and substance misuse. Current estimates show that 50% of children with ADHD continue to have symptoms of ADHD in adolescence and adulthood. Predictors of persistence include combined inattention/hyperactivity, increased symptom severity, comorbid major depressive or other mood disorder, high comorbidity, parental anxiety, and parental antisocial personality disorder.

• #26 Psychiatry.org – What is ADHD?

  https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/adhd/what-is-adhd

  Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common mental disorders affecting children. Symptoms of ADHD include inattention (not being able to keep focus), hyperactivity (excess movement that is not fitting to the setting) and impulsivity (hasty acts that occur in the moment without thought). ADHD is considered a chronic and debilitating disorder and is known to impact the individual in many aspects of their life including academic and professional achievements, interpersonal relationships, and daily functioning (Harpin, 2005). ADHD can lead to poor self-esteem and social function in children when not appropriately treated (Harpin et al., 2016). […] Scientists have not yet identified the specific causes of ADHD. While there is growing evidence that genetics contribute to ADHD and several genes have been linked to the disorder, no specific gene or gene combination has been identified as the cause of the disorder. However, it is important to note that relatives of individuals with ADHD are often also affected. There is evidence of anatomical differences in the brains of children with ADHD in comparison to other children without the condition. For instance, children with ADHD have reduced grey and white brain matter volume and demonstrate different brain region activation during certain tasks (Pliszka, 2007). Further studies have indicated that the frontal lobes, caudate nucleus, and cerebellar vermis of the brain are affected in ADHD (Tripp Wickens, 2009). Several non-genetic factors have also been linked to the disorder such as low birth weight, premature birth, exposure to toxins (alcohol, smoking, lead, etc.) during pregnancy, and extreme stress during pregnancy.

• #27 Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder – Wikipedia

  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Attention_deficit_hyperactivity_disorder

  ADHD arises from maldevelopment in brain regions such as the prefrontal cortex, basal ganglia and anterior cingulate cortex, which regulate the executive functions necessary for human self-regulation. […] The precise causes of ADHD are unknown in most individual cases. […] Meta-analyses have shown that the disorder is primarily genetic with a heritability rate of 70-80%, where risk factors are highly accumulative. […] The environmental risks are not related to social or familial factors; they exert their effects very early in life, in the prenatal or early postnatal period. […] However, in rare cases, ADHD can be caused by a single event including traumatic brain injury, exposure to biohazards during pregnancy, or a major genetic mutation. […] ADHD arises from brain maldevelopment especially in the prefrontal executive networks that can arise either from genetic factors (different gene variants and mutations for building and regulating such networks) or from acquired disruptions to the development of these networks and regions involved in executive functioning and self-regulation.

• #28 ADHD in Kids: Symptoms, Types, and Tests for ADHD in Children

  https://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/childhood-adhd/adhd-children

  Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children is a difference in brain development that can affect their ability to focus and self-control. […] Doctors don’t know exactly what causes ADHD. But it’s known to run in families. One out of 4 kids with ADHD also have a parent with ADHD. […] Research has shown that children with ADHD may have differences in: Areas of the brain that control social skills, attention, and movement; Chemicals that control communication in the brain. […] Experts also believe that the brains of children with ADHD tend to mature later than those of kids without the condition. […] Studies have found no evidence that ADHD could be caused by: Sugar; Vaccines; Poor parenting; TV or video games. […] Scientists are also studying whether these things are linked to higher chances of ADHD in children: Alcohol or tobacco use during pregnancy; Premature birth; Brain injury; Exposure during pregnancy to certain environmental risks (like lead); Low birth weight.

• #29 Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Background, Pathophysiology, Epidemiology

  https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/289350-overview

  Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a developmental condition of inattention and distractibility, with or without accompanying hyperactivity. There are 3 basic forms of ADHD described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) of the American Psychiatric Association: inattentive; hyperactive-impulsive; and combined. […] The pathology of ADHD is not clear. Psychostimulants (which facilitate dopamine release) and noradrenergic tricyclics used to treat this condition have led to speculation that certain brain areas related to attention are deficient in neural transmission. […] The neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine have been associated with ADHD. […] The underlying brain regions predominantly thought to be involved are frontal and prefrontal; the parietal lobe and cerebellum may also be involved.

• #30 Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Children, Adolescents and Teens | Phoenix Children’s Hospital

  https://phoenixchildrens.org/specialties-conditions/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd-children-adolescents-and-teens

  ADHD is one of the most researched areas in child and adolescent mental health. However, the precise cause of the disorder is still unknown. Available evidence suggests that ADHD is genetic. It is a brain-based biological disorder. Low levels of dopamine (a brain chemical), which is a neurotransmitter (a type of brain chemical), are found in children with ADHD. Brain imaging studies using PET scanners (positron emission tomography; a form of brain imaging that makes it possible to observe the human brain at work) show that brain metabolism in children with ADHD is lower in the areas of the brain that control attention, social judgment, and movement. […] Preventive measures to reduce the incidence of ADHD in children are not known at this time. However, early detection and intervention can reduce the severity of symptoms, decrease the interference of behavioral symptoms on school functioning, enhance the child’s normal growth and development, and improve the quality of life experienced by children or adolescents with ADHD.

• #31 Causes of ADHD | Guide of ADHD in children

  https://www.adhd-information.com/adhd-causes.html

  Even today, there are doubts time and again as to whether ADHD actually exists or whether it’s not much rather an invented illness. […] Today, there is sufficient scientific evidence that ADHD is caused by an underlying neurobiological metabolic and functional disorder in the brain. […] Significant anomalies in the neurotransmitter system in the brain were detected in examinations of affected persons. […] Such anomalies are triggered by an imbalance of the neurotransmitters dopamine and noradrenaline which play an important role in the transmission of stimuli in nerve cells. […] With ADHD, there is an imbalance of the neurotransmitters dopamine and noradrenaline. […] Due to the lack of dopamine in the synaptic cleft, information transmission between nerve cells is impaired. […] This results in a permanent overstimulation or sensory overload in the brain.

• #32 Causes of ADHD | Guide of ADHD in children

  https://www.adhd-information.com/adhd-causes.html

  Even today, there are doubts time and again as to whether ADHD actually exists or whether it’s not much rather an invented illness. […] Today, there is sufficient scientific evidence that ADHD is caused by an underlying neurobiological metabolic and functional disorder in the brain. […] Significant anomalies in the neurotransmitter system in the brain were detected in examinations of affected persons. […] Such anomalies are triggered by an imbalance of the neurotransmitters dopamine and noradrenaline which play an important role in the transmission of stimuli in nerve cells. […] With ADHD, there is an imbalance of the neurotransmitters dopamine and noradrenaline. […] Due to the lack of dopamine in the synaptic cleft, information transmission between nerve cells is impaired. […] This results in a permanent overstimulation or sensory overload in the brain.

• #33 ADHD Causes & Risk Factors: Genetics, Biology, and More

  https://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/adhd-causes

  Researchers believe that some toxins may interfere with brain development. That, they say, could lead to hyperactivity, impulsive behavior, and trouble paying attention. […] Studies show that brain chemicals, called neurotransmitters, don’t work the same in children and adults with ADHD. There also tend to be differences in the way nerve pathways work. […] Certain parts of the brain may be less active or smaller in children with ADHD than those without the disorder. […] The brain chemical dopamine may also play a role. It carries signals between nerves in the brain and is linked to movement, sleep, mood, attention, and learning.

• #34 Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

  https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4784-attention-deficithyperactivity-disorder-adhd

  ADHD is genetic. This means your child is born with certain gene changes that cause differences in their brain development (neurodivergence). Often, the gene changes that cause ADHD are passed down within biological families. Kids with ADHD commonly have biological parents or siblings with the condition. […] Experts believe that some people have genes that predispose them to ADHD. In other words, the genes make ADHD a possibility for that person. But then, certain environmental factors tip the scales and cause ADHD to develop. […] Environmental risk factors include: Exposure to certain toxins during fetal development, including tobacco, alcohol or lead. Low birth weight (the lower the weight, the higher the risk). Preterm birth.

• #35 What causes attention deficit hyperactivity disorder? | Archives of Disease in Childhood

  https://adc.bmj.com/content/97/3/260

  Inherited factors are not the only explanation of ADHD. Although there are a number of environmental risk factors that are associated with ADHD, identifying which of these are causal is challenging. […] Most studies, including meta-analyses of premature and/or low birth weight children, find evidence of an association with ADHD and ADHD symptoms/attentional problems. The risk appears to be strongest for extreme prematurity and very low birth weight in relation to inattention symptoms and ADHD inattentive subtype. […] Specific environmental exposures that seem to have relevance to the ADHD phenotype include organic pollutants (eg, pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyl (PCBs)) and lead. These may damage cognitive and neural systems known to be implicated in ADHD. […] Adverse social and family environments such as low parental education, social class, poverty, bullying/peer victimisation, negative parenting, maltreatment and family discord are associated with ADHD. However, the designs used so far have not been able to show that these are definite causes of ADHD.

• #36 Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adhd/symptoms-causes/syc-20350889

  Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children, also called ADHD, is a long-term condition that affects millions of children. While the exact cause of ADHD is not clear, research efforts continue. Factors that may be involved in the development of ADHD include genetics, the environment or central nervous system conditions at key moments in development. ADHD occurs more often in boys than in girls. Although many people seem to believe that sugar causes hyperactivity, there’s no proof of this. Many issues in childhood can lead to trouble paying attention, but that’s not the same as ADHD. […] Risk factors for ADHD may include having a blood relative, such as a parent or sibling, with ADHD or another mental health condition, being around environmental toxins such as lead, being born to a parent who used recreational drugs, alcohol or tobacco during pregnancy, and being born too early, also called premature birth.

• #37 About Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) | Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) | CDC

  https://www.cdc.gov/adhd/about/index.html

  ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders of childhood. […] The causes of ADHD are unknown, but scientists have identified some possible risk factors. […] Genetics. […] Exposure to environmental risks (for example, lead) during pregnancy or at a young age. […] Alcohol and tobacco use during pregnancy and other pregnancy-related factors. […] Child health conditions, including head injuries. […] Parental mental health and family environment.

• #38 What are the causes of ADHD? Biology vs. environment

  https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/causes-of-adhd

  According to a 2018 review, functional MRI (fMRI) studies indicate that people with ADHD may have impairments in several brain networks that manage attention, cognitive control, timing, and working memory. […] Some research connects ADHD to complications that affect fetal development during pregnancy, such as prenatal alcohol exposure and prenatal smoking. […] A 2015 study found that children who experienced prenatal alcohol exposure were 1.55 times more likely to have ADHD. […] Psychological trauma may play a role in ADHD, but it is unclear how, or to what extent. […] Children with ACEs are more likely to have ADHD. […] ADHD appears to be something a person has from birth, or that develops in early childhood. […] Researchers are still learning about the causes of ADHD. However, they suspect a combination of genetic and environmental factors increases a persons chances of developing the condition.

• #39 What Caused My Kid’s ADHD? | Psych Central

  https://psychcentral.com/childhood-adhd/causes-risk-factors-of-childhood-adhd

  Another 2018 study made a connection that pregnant people who drank at least four alcoholic drinks in one sitting during pregnancy were more likely to have a child who had ADHD. […] Poor nutrition and infections during pregnancy can raise the risk of the child having ADHD too. […] Known risk factors for ADHD include maternal diet during pregnancy, Myszak says. This also includes particular medications, such as antidepressants, antihypertensives, and caffeine. […] Being born early or having a low birth weight also appear to be risk factors. […] Some ADHD diagnoses seem to be the result of brain damage, such as from: […] Some studies have also found that meningitis or encephalitis might also result in ADHD in kids.

• #40 What Caused My Kid’s ADHD? | Psych Central

  https://psychcentral.com/childhood-adhd/causes-risk-factors-of-childhood-adhd

  Some other causes include: […] Research suggests that exposure to certain toxins, either in utero or at a young age, might lead to ADHD. […] One of those toxins could be lead, which is found in a variety of places, including in the paint of homes built before 1978 and in gasoline. The heavy metal seems to be associated with inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity all symptoms of ADHD. […] Another toxin that could be linked to ADHD is a pesticide called organophosphate. Its commonly sprayed on lawns and agricultural products. […] Several studies have found that if a fetus is exposed to tobacco and or alcohol, it can increase the risk that the baby will develop ADHD. […] For example, a 2018 study found that children were at greater risk of having ADHD if their birthing parent was a heavy smoker.

• #41 Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Background, Pathophysiology, Epidemiology

  https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/289350-overview

  A 2010 study again indicated the presence of frontostriatal malfunctioning in the etiology of ADHD. […] According to a study of young children, there is evidence of early brain structural changes in pre-schoolers with ADHD. […] Researchers in Denmark conducted a population-based cohort study to determine the association of prenatal exposure to antiepileptic drugs and risk of ADHD in offspring. […] This suggests that maternal use of valproate, but not other AEDs, during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of ADHD in the offspring. […] There has been concern about the association of maternal smoking during pregnancy and the development of ADHD in offspring. […] Results showed a dose-dependent relationship between nicotine exposure during pregnancy and offspring ADHD. […] Evidence of a neurobiologic contribution to the cause of ADHD continues to grow.

• #42 Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Symptoms & Causes | NewYork-Presbyterian

  https://www.nyp.org/pediatrics/child-and-adolescent-psychiatry/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd

  What Causes ADHD in Children? The exact cause of ADHD is unknown. Research suggests it may be due to a combination of genetics, environment, and other factors that may have caused injury to the nervous system early on, like prematurity. […] Risk factors for ADHD include: Genetics – having a close relative with ADHD, including a parent or a sibling […] Currently, there is no known way to prevent ADHD. Pregnant persons should avoid smoking cigarettes, drinking alcohol, and using drugs, which may help reduce the risk of ADHD and other issues in the child’s behavior.

• #43

  https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/adhd/Pages/Causes-of-ADHD.aspx

  Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurobiologic condition whose symptoms are also dependent on the child’s environment. […] ADHD may be caused by a number of things: […] A lower level of activity in the parts of the brain that control attention and activity level may be associated with ADHD. […] ADHD frequently runs in families. A child with ADHD has a 1 in 4 chance of having a parent with ADHD. […] Significant head injuries may cause ADHD in some cases. […] Prematurity increases the risk of developing ADHD. […] Prenatal exposures, such as alcohol or nicotine from smoking, increase the risk of developing ADHD. […] In very rare cases, toxins in the environment may lead to ADHD.

• #44 What causes attention deficit hyperactivity disorder? | Archives of Disease in Childhood

  https://adc.bmj.com/content/97/3/260

  Inherited factors are not the only explanation of ADHD. Although there are a number of environmental risk factors that are associated with ADHD, identifying which of these are causal is challenging. […] Most studies, including meta-analyses of premature and/or low birth weight children, find evidence of an association with ADHD and ADHD symptoms/attentional problems. The risk appears to be strongest for extreme prematurity and very low birth weight in relation to inattention symptoms and ADHD inattentive subtype. […] Specific environmental exposures that seem to have relevance to the ADHD phenotype include organic pollutants (eg, pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyl (PCBs)) and lead. These may damage cognitive and neural systems known to be implicated in ADHD. […] Adverse social and family environments such as low parental education, social class, poverty, bullying/peer victimisation, negative parenting, maltreatment and family discord are associated with ADHD. However, the designs used so far have not been able to show that these are definite causes of ADHD.

• #45 Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

  https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4784-attention-deficithyperactivity-disorder-adhd

  ADHD is genetic. This means your child is born with certain gene changes that cause differences in their brain development (neurodivergence). Often, the gene changes that cause ADHD are passed down within biological families. Kids with ADHD commonly have biological parents or siblings with the condition. […] Experts believe that some people have genes that predispose them to ADHD. In other words, the genes make ADHD a possibility for that person. But then, certain environmental factors tip the scales and cause ADHD to develop. […] Environmental risk factors include: Exposure to certain toxins during fetal development, including tobacco, alcohol or lead. Low birth weight (the lower the weight, the higher the risk). Preterm birth.

• #46 ADHD in children – Symptoms checklist, How to notice, and Treatments | MedPark Hospital

  https://www.medparkhospital.com/en-US/disease-and-treatment/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-in-children

  ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by dysfunction in the developing forebrain of the central nervous system, which makes certain chemicals with roles in the control of concentration, attentiveness, or inhibition. […] ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is caused by the low levels of the neurotransmitters released into the forebrain, such as dopamine or norepinephrine, which control attention span and self-control, both physically and mentally. The causes of ADHD include the following: […] The most important factor found to increase a child’s risk of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder by up to 57% is whether the father or mother has a history of the condition. […] Prenatal exposure to chemicals or the accumulation of heavy metals, such as lead, in the body […] Smoking, drinking alcohol, or using drugs while pregnant are all risk factors that can increase the risk of ADHD in the fetus. […] Premature birth and low birth weight babies have a high likelihood that a child will develop ADHD. They are more likely to have learning disorders too.

• #47 What causes attention deficit hyperactivity disorder? | Archives of Disease in Childhood

  https://adc.bmj.com/content/97/3/260

  Inherited factors are not the only explanation of ADHD. Although there are a number of environmental risk factors that are associated with ADHD, identifying which of these are causal is challenging. […] Most studies, including meta-analyses of premature and/or low birth weight children, find evidence of an association with ADHD and ADHD symptoms/attentional problems. The risk appears to be strongest for extreme prematurity and very low birth weight in relation to inattention symptoms and ADHD inattentive subtype. […] Specific environmental exposures that seem to have relevance to the ADHD phenotype include organic pollutants (eg, pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyl (PCBs)) and lead. These may damage cognitive and neural systems known to be implicated in ADHD. […] Adverse social and family environments such as low parental education, social class, poverty, bullying/peer victimisation, negative parenting, maltreatment and family discord are associated with ADHD. However, the designs used so far have not been able to show that these are definite causes of ADHD.

• #48 ADHD Causes & Risk Factors: Genetics, Biology, and More

  https://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/adhd-causes

  No one knows exactly what causes ADHD, but certain things are known to play a role. […] ADHD runs in families. Anywhere from one-third to one-half of parents with ADHD will have a child with the disorder. There are genetic characteristics that seem to be passed down. […] If a parent has ADHD, a child has more than a 50% chance of having it. If an older sibling has it, a child has more than a 30% chance. […] Children born with a low birth weight, born premature, or whose mothers had difficult pregnancies have a higher risk of having ADHD. The same is true for children with head injuries to the frontal lobe of the brain, the area that controls impulses and emotions. […] Studies show that pregnant women who smoke or drink alcohol may have a higher risk of having a child with ADHD. Exposure to lead, PCBs, or pesticides may also have a role.

• #49 Causes of and Risk Factors for ADHD

  https://www.healthline.com/health/adhd/causes

  Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurobehavioral disorder. That is, ADHD affects the way a persons brain processes information. It influences behavior as a result. […] The exact cause of this condition is unknown. Researchers believe that genetics, nutrition, central nervous system problems during development, and other factors play a significant role according to the Mayo Clinic. […] There is strong evidence that a persons genes influence ADHD. Researchers have found that ADHD runs in families in twin and family studies. Its been found to affect close relatives of people with ADHD. You and your siblings are more likely to have ADHD if your mother or father has it. […] Many researchers believe there may be a connection between ADHD and certain common neurotoxic chemicals, namely lead and some pesticides. Lead exposure in children may affect the level of education they achieve. Its also potentially associated with inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.

• #50 What causes attention deficit hyperactivity disorder? | Archives of Disease in Childhood

  https://adc.bmj.com/content/97/3/260

  Inherited factors are not the only explanation of ADHD. Although there are a number of environmental risk factors that are associated with ADHD, identifying which of these are causal is challenging. […] Most studies, including meta-analyses of premature and/or low birth weight children, find evidence of an association with ADHD and ADHD symptoms/attentional problems. The risk appears to be strongest for extreme prematurity and very low birth weight in relation to inattention symptoms and ADHD inattentive subtype. […] Specific environmental exposures that seem to have relevance to the ADHD phenotype include organic pollutants (eg, pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyl (PCBs)) and lead. These may damage cognitive and neural systems known to be implicated in ADHD. […] Adverse social and family environments such as low parental education, social class, poverty, bullying/peer victimisation, negative parenting, maltreatment and family discord are associated with ADHD. However, the designs used so far have not been able to show that these are definite causes of ADHD.

• #51 What Caused My Kid’s ADHD? | Psych Central

  https://psychcentral.com/childhood-adhd/causes-risk-factors-of-childhood-adhd

  Some other causes include: […] Research suggests that exposure to certain toxins, either in utero or at a young age, might lead to ADHD. […] One of those toxins could be lead, which is found in a variety of places, including in the paint of homes built before 1978 and in gasoline. The heavy metal seems to be associated with inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity all symptoms of ADHD. […] Another toxin that could be linked to ADHD is a pesticide called organophosphate. Its commonly sprayed on lawns and agricultural products. […] Several studies have found that if a fetus is exposed to tobacco and or alcohol, it can increase the risk that the baby will develop ADHD. […] For example, a 2018 study found that children were at greater risk of having ADHD if their birthing parent was a heavy smoker.

• #52 What causes attention deficit hyperactivity disorder? | Archives of Disease in Childhood

  https://adc.bmj.com/content/97/3/260

  Inherited factors are not the only explanation of ADHD. Although there are a number of environmental risk factors that are associated with ADHD, identifying which of these are causal is challenging. […] Most studies, including meta-analyses of premature and/or low birth weight children, find evidence of an association with ADHD and ADHD symptoms/attentional problems. The risk appears to be strongest for extreme prematurity and very low birth weight in relation to inattention symptoms and ADHD inattentive subtype. […] Specific environmental exposures that seem to have relevance to the ADHD phenotype include organic pollutants (eg, pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyl (PCBs)) and lead. These may damage cognitive and neural systems known to be implicated in ADHD. […] Adverse social and family environments such as low parental education, social class, poverty, bullying/peer victimisation, negative parenting, maltreatment and family discord are associated with ADHD. However, the designs used so far have not been able to show that these are definite causes of ADHD.

• #53 ADHD Causes & Risk Factors: Genetics, Biology, and More

  https://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/adhd-causes

  No one knows exactly what causes ADHD, but certain things are known to play a role. […] ADHD runs in families. Anywhere from one-third to one-half of parents with ADHD will have a child with the disorder. There are genetic characteristics that seem to be passed down. […] If a parent has ADHD, a child has more than a 50% chance of having it. If an older sibling has it, a child has more than a 30% chance. […] Children born with a low birth weight, born premature, or whose mothers had difficult pregnancies have a higher risk of having ADHD. The same is true for children with head injuries to the frontal lobe of the brain, the area that controls impulses and emotions. […] Studies show that pregnant women who smoke or drink alcohol may have a higher risk of having a child with ADHD. Exposure to lead, PCBs, or pesticides may also have a role.

• #54 ADHD Causes & Risk Factors: Genetics, Biology, and More

  https://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/adhd-causes

  No one knows exactly what causes ADHD, but certain things are known to play a role. […] ADHD runs in families. Anywhere from one-third to one-half of parents with ADHD will have a child with the disorder. There are genetic characteristics that seem to be passed down. […] If a parent has ADHD, a child has more than a 50% chance of having it. If an older sibling has it, a child has more than a 30% chance. […] Children born with a low birth weight, born premature, or whose mothers had difficult pregnancies have a higher risk of having ADHD. The same is true for children with head injuries to the frontal lobe of the brain, the area that controls impulses and emotions. […] Studies show that pregnant women who smoke or drink alcohol may have a higher risk of having a child with ADHD. Exposure to lead, PCBs, or pesticides may also have a role.

• #55 What Caused My Kid’s ADHD? | Psych Central

  https://psychcentral.com/childhood-adhd/causes-risk-factors-of-childhood-adhd

  Another 2018 study made a connection that pregnant people who drank at least four alcoholic drinks in one sitting during pregnancy were more likely to have a child who had ADHD. […] Poor nutrition and infections during pregnancy can raise the risk of the child having ADHD too. […] Known risk factors for ADHD include maternal diet during pregnancy, Myszak says. This also includes particular medications, such as antidepressants, antihypertensives, and caffeine. […] Being born early or having a low birth weight also appear to be risk factors. […] Some ADHD diagnoses seem to be the result of brain damage, such as from: […] Some studies have also found that meningitis or encephalitis might also result in ADHD in kids.

• #56 What Caused My Kid’s ADHD? | Psych Central

  https://psychcentral.com/childhood-adhd/causes-risk-factors-of-childhood-adhd

  Another 2018 study made a connection that pregnant people who drank at least four alcoholic drinks in one sitting during pregnancy were more likely to have a child who had ADHD. […] Poor nutrition and infections during pregnancy can raise the risk of the child having ADHD too. […] Known risk factors for ADHD include maternal diet during pregnancy, Myszak says. This also includes particular medications, such as antidepressants, antihypertensives, and caffeine. […] Being born early or having a low birth weight also appear to be risk factors. […] Some ADHD diagnoses seem to be the result of brain damage, such as from: […] Some studies have also found that meningitis or encephalitis might also result in ADHD in kids.

• #57 What causes attention deficit hyperactivity disorder?

  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3927422/

  Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects around 13% of children. ADHD is highly heritable, although there is no single causal risk factor and non-inherited factors also contribute to its aetiology. The genetic and environmental risk factors that have been implicated appear to be associated with a range of neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric outcomes, not just ADHD. ADHD, like other common medical and psychiatric disorders, is influenced by multiple genes, non-inherited factors and their interplay. There is no single cause of ADHD and exposure to a risk factor does not necessarily result in disorder. This means that any given risk factor will only be observed in a proportion of cases and will also be found in those who are unaffected. Also, risk factors that contribute to the origins of ADHD might not necessarily be the same as those that influence its course and outcomes. A further complexity is that genetic factors can exert indirect risk effects through interplay with environmental factors. Genes can alter sensitivity to environmental risks (gene-environment interaction), for example, environmental toxins or psychosocial adversity. Inherited factors can also influence the probability of exposure to certain environmental risks (gene-environment correlation). There is robust evidence from a wide range of study designs of a strong inherited contribution to ADHD. Family studies have consistently found higher rates of ADHD in parents and siblings of affected probands compared with relatives of unaffected controls. Twin studies have shown that monozygotic twin pairs have much higher concordance rates for ADHD than dizygotic twin pairs. ADHD also appears to share an inherited liability with other neurodevelopmental and psychiatric problems, notably ASDs, developmental coordination problems, reading ability, IQ, conduct and mood problems. These findings suggest the same inherited and familial risks can result in the manifestation of different clinical phenotypes. ADHD, like other common medical and psychiatric disorders, is influenced by multiple genes, non-inherited factors and their interplay. There is no single cause of ADHD and exposure to a risk factor does not necessarily result in disorder. This means that any given risk factor will only be observed in a proportion of cases and will also be found in those who are unaffected. Also, risk factors that contribute to the origins of ADHD might not necessarily be the same as those that influence its course and outcomes. Inherited factors are not the only explanation of ADHD. Although there are a number of environmental risk factors that are associated with ADHD, identifying which of these are causal is challenging. This is because many observed associations might arise as a result of symptoms/disorder in the child or the parent (reverse causation) or from unmeasured confounders that can include inherited factors. Specific environmental exposures that seem to have relevance to the ADHD phenotype include organic pollutants and lead. These may damage cognitive and neural systems known to be implicated in ADHD.

• #58 The Top Causes of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder ADHD-BED Integrated®

  https://adhd.clinic/news-research/the-top-causes-of-attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder/

  There are factors within the environment that can increase the risk of developing ADHD. These factors include: Consumption of drugs and alcohol during pregnancy, Premature birth, Low birthweight, Exposure to toxic environmental metals (e.g., lead, mercury), Nutrient deficiency in diet, Hostile early childhood experiences like familial conflict or poverty. […] It is also highly likely that the overall risk of a child developing ADHD is dependent on the complex interaction between both genetic and environmental factors, highlighting the idea that not one sole factor can be attributed to causing ADHD.

• #59 What causes attention deficit hyperactivity disorder? | Archives of Disease in Childhood

  https://adc.bmj.com/content/97/3/260

  Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects around 13% of children. ADHD is highly heritable, although there is no single causal risk factor and non-inherited factors also contribute to its aetiology. The genetic and environmental risk factors that have been implicated appear to be associated with a range of neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric outcomes, not just ADHD. ADHD or a similar phenotype also appears to be more common in extreme low birth weight and premature children and those exposed to exceptional early adversity. […] ADHD, like other common medical and psychiatric disorders (eg, asthma, schizophrenia), is influenced by multiple genes, non-inherited factors and their interplay. There is no single cause of ADHD and exposure to a risk factor does not necessarily result in disorder. This means that any given risk factor will only be observed in a proportion of cases and will also be found in those who are unaffected. Also, risk factors that contribute to the origins of ADHD might not necessarily be the same as those that influence its course and outcomes.

• #60 What Are the Causes of ADHD?

  https://www.verywellmind.com/what-causes-adhd-20465

  There’s also evidence that using some substances during pregnancy increases the risk that the child will develop ADHD. […] It’s likely that ADHD stems from a variety of causes. Someone who has a genetic predisposition, for example, may encounter environmental factors that also contribute to the development of ADHD. Toxins, exposure to substances during prenatal development, certain types of infections, and brain injuries can increase the risk that a person will develop ADHD.

• #61 What causes attention deficit hyperactivity disorder? | Archives of Disease in Childhood

  https://adc.bmj.com/content/97/3/260

  Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects around 13% of children. ADHD is highly heritable, although there is no single causal risk factor and non-inherited factors also contribute to its aetiology. The genetic and environmental risk factors that have been implicated appear to be associated with a range of neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric outcomes, not just ADHD. ADHD or a similar phenotype also appears to be more common in extreme low birth weight and premature children and those exposed to exceptional early adversity. […] ADHD, like other common medical and psychiatric disorders (eg, asthma, schizophrenia), is influenced by multiple genes, non-inherited factors and their interplay. There is no single cause of ADHD and exposure to a risk factor does not necessarily result in disorder. This means that any given risk factor will only be observed in a proportion of cases and will also be found in those who are unaffected. Also, risk factors that contribute to the origins of ADHD might not necessarily be the same as those that influence its course and outcomes.

• #62 What causes attention deficit hyperactivity disorder?

  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3927422/

  Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects around 13% of children. ADHD is highly heritable, although there is no single causal risk factor and non-inherited factors also contribute to its aetiology. The genetic and environmental risk factors that have been implicated appear to be associated with a range of neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric outcomes, not just ADHD. ADHD, like other common medical and psychiatric disorders, is influenced by multiple genes, non-inherited factors and their interplay. There is no single cause of ADHD and exposure to a risk factor does not necessarily result in disorder. This means that any given risk factor will only be observed in a proportion of cases and will also be found in those who are unaffected. Also, risk factors that contribute to the origins of ADHD might not necessarily be the same as those that influence its course and outcomes. A further complexity is that genetic factors can exert indirect risk effects through interplay with environmental factors. Genes can alter sensitivity to environmental risks (gene-environment interaction), for example, environmental toxins or psychosocial adversity. Inherited factors can also influence the probability of exposure to certain environmental risks (gene-environment correlation). There is robust evidence from a wide range of study designs of a strong inherited contribution to ADHD. Family studies have consistently found higher rates of ADHD in parents and siblings of affected probands compared with relatives of unaffected controls. Twin studies have shown that monozygotic twin pairs have much higher concordance rates for ADHD than dizygotic twin pairs. ADHD also appears to share an inherited liability with other neurodevelopmental and psychiatric problems, notably ASDs, developmental coordination problems, reading ability, IQ, conduct and mood problems. These findings suggest the same inherited and familial risks can result in the manifestation of different clinical phenotypes. ADHD, like other common medical and psychiatric disorders, is influenced by multiple genes, non-inherited factors and their interplay. There is no single cause of ADHD and exposure to a risk factor does not necessarily result in disorder. This means that any given risk factor will only be observed in a proportion of cases and will also be found in those who are unaffected. Also, risk factors that contribute to the origins of ADHD might not necessarily be the same as those that influence its course and outcomes. Inherited factors are not the only explanation of ADHD. Although there are a number of environmental risk factors that are associated with ADHD, identifying which of these are causal is challenging. This is because many observed associations might arise as a result of symptoms/disorder in the child or the parent (reverse causation) or from unmeasured confounders that can include inherited factors. Specific environmental exposures that seem to have relevance to the ADHD phenotype include organic pollutants and lead. These may damage cognitive and neural systems known to be implicated in ADHD.

• #63 ADHD in Kids & Teens (for Parents) | Nemours KidsHealth

  https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/adhd.html

  ADHD stands for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. It is a medical condition. A person with ADHD has differences in brain development and brain activity that affect attention, the ability to sit still, and self-control. ADHD can affect kids and teens at school, at home, and in friendships. […] It’s not clear what causes the brain differences of ADHD. Theres strong evidence that ADHD is mostly inherited. Many kids and teens who have ADHD have a parent or relative with it. Kids also can be more at risk for it if they were born early, are exposed to environmental toxins, or their mothers used drugs during pregnancy. […] ADHD is not caused by too much screen time, poor parenting, or eating too much sugar.

• #64 ADHD Overview: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

  https://www.verywellhealth.com/adhd-attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-included-definition-symptoms-traits-causes-treatment-5084784

  Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) causes symptoms that begin in early childhood. […] ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by differences in brain growth and nerve connections. […] ADHD’s causes are still being studied. However, research suggests that genetic alterations and environmental factors work together to affect brain growth. […] Dozens of gene variations are associated with ADHD. Environmental risk factors that may contribute to ADHD include: low birth rate, premature birth, exposure to heavy metals like lead during pregnancy or in early life, alcohol or cigarette use during pregnancy, and traumatic brain injury (TBI). […] There are many myths about the potential causes of ADHD that have been proven false. For example, the following do not cause ADHD: poor parenting skills, food allergies, food additives, vaccines, eating large amounts of sugar, watching too much television, and family turmoil. Some of these issues may worsen ADHD symptoms. Others can cause similar symptoms. But they don’t contribute to ADHD. […] While the cause of ADHD is not known, genetics and environmental factors both play a role.

• #65 Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adhd/symptoms-causes/syc-20350889

  Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children, also called ADHD, is a long-term condition that affects millions of children. While the exact cause of ADHD is not clear, research efforts continue. Factors that may be involved in the development of ADHD include genetics, the environment or central nervous system conditions at key moments in development. ADHD occurs more often in boys than in girls. Although many people seem to believe that sugar causes hyperactivity, there’s no proof of this. Many issues in childhood can lead to trouble paying attention, but that’s not the same as ADHD. […] Risk factors for ADHD may include having a blood relative, such as a parent or sibling, with ADHD or another mental health condition, being around environmental toxins such as lead, being born to a parent who used recreational drugs, alcohol or tobacco during pregnancy, and being born too early, also called premature birth.

• #66 Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) – Children’s Health Issues – Merck Manual Consumer Version

  https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/children-s-health-issues/learning-and-developmental-disorders/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd

  Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is poor or short attention span and/or excessive activity and impulsiveness inappropriate for the child’s age that interferes with functioning or development. […] ADHD has no known single specific cause, but genetic (inherited) factors are often present. Research indicates that ADHD likely involves abnormalities in neurotransmitters (substances that transmit nerve impulses within the brain). Some other risk factors include low birth weight (under 3 pounds [1500 grams]), head injury, brain infection, iron deficiency, obstructive sleep apnea, and lead exposure, as well as exposure to alcohol, tobacco, or possibly cocaine before birth. ADHD also is associated with traumatic events during childhood, for example, violence, abuse, or neglect. […] Although some children seem to become overactive or impulsive after eating foods containing sugar, studies have confirmed that the brain differences that lead to ADHD are present at birth and that food and environmental factors do not cause the disorder.

• #67 Azthena logo with the word Azthena

  https://www.news-medical.net/health/ADHD-Causes-and-Risk-factors.aspx

  ADHD (short for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) encompasses a wide range of behavioural disorders characterized by lack of attention and concentration, hyperactivity and inability to control impulsivity. […] A parent of a recently diagnosed child may blame themselves or their parenting, but more often than not the cause of the condition is not related to parenting at all. […] There are no definite causes that have been found to trigger ADHD in a child. However, the following factors may contribute to a raised risk of the condition: Altered anatomy or function of the brain Brain scans have shown that some areas of the brain especially those related to activity and attention spans are different among children and adults with ADHD. […] Genetics ADHD sometimes may be inherited. There are studies that have found several genes that are related to ADHD causation.

• #68 ADHD Overview: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

  https://www.verywellhealth.com/adhd-attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-included-definition-symptoms-traits-causes-treatment-5084784

  Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) causes symptoms that begin in early childhood. […] ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by differences in brain growth and nerve connections. […] ADHD’s causes are still being studied. However, research suggests that genetic alterations and environmental factors work together to affect brain growth. […] Dozens of gene variations are associated with ADHD. Environmental risk factors that may contribute to ADHD include: low birth rate, premature birth, exposure to heavy metals like lead during pregnancy or in early life, alcohol or cigarette use during pregnancy, and traumatic brain injury (TBI). […] There are many myths about the potential causes of ADHD that have been proven false. For example, the following do not cause ADHD: poor parenting skills, food allergies, food additives, vaccines, eating large amounts of sugar, watching too much television, and family turmoil. Some of these issues may worsen ADHD symptoms. Others can cause similar symptoms. But they don’t contribute to ADHD. […] While the cause of ADHD is not known, genetics and environmental factors both play a role.

• #69 ADHD—What Causes Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and How Is It Treated?

  https://www.centennialpedspokane.com/behavior/ADHD%E2%80%94What-Causes-Attention-Deficit-Hyperactivity-D

  ADHD is one of the most studied conditions of childhood, and it may be caused by a number of things. Research to date has shown that ADHD is a neurobiological condition whose symptoms can also depend on the child’s environment. […] A lower level of activity in the parts of the brain that control attention and activity level may be associated with ADHD. […] ADHD often runs in families. […] In very rare cases, toxins in the environment may lead to ADHD-like symptoms. For instance, lead in the body can affect child development. […] Significant head injuries may cause ADHD-like symptoms in some children. […] Preterm birth increases the risk for ADHD. […] Prenatal substance exposures, such as to alcohol or nicotine from smoking, increase the risk for ADHD-like symptoms. […] There is no scientific evidence that ADHD is caused by eating too much sugar. […] There is no scientific evidence that ADHD is caused by food additives or food colorings. […] There is no scientific evidence that ADHD is caused by allergies. […] There is no scientific evidence that ADHD is caused by immunizations.

• #70 ADHD in Kids: Symptoms, Types, and Tests for ADHD in Children

  https://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/childhood-adhd/adhd-children

  Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children is a difference in brain development that can affect their ability to focus and self-control. […] Doctors don’t know exactly what causes ADHD. But it’s known to run in families. One out of 4 kids with ADHD also have a parent with ADHD. […] Research has shown that children with ADHD may have differences in: Areas of the brain that control social skills, attention, and movement; Chemicals that control communication in the brain. […] Experts also believe that the brains of children with ADHD tend to mature later than those of kids without the condition. […] Studies have found no evidence that ADHD could be caused by: Sugar; Vaccines; Poor parenting; TV or video games. […] Scientists are also studying whether these things are linked to higher chances of ADHD in children: Alcohol or tobacco use during pregnancy; Premature birth; Brain injury; Exposure during pregnancy to certain environmental risks (like lead); Low birth weight.

• #71 ADHD—What Causes Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and How Is It Treated?

  https://www.bright-pediatrics.com/behavior/ADHD%E2%80%94What-Causes-Attention-Deficit-Hyperactivity-D

  ADHD is one of the most studied conditions of childhood, and it may be caused by a number of things. Research to date has shown that ADHD is a neurobiological condition whose symptoms can also depend on the child’s environment. […] A lower level of activity in the parts of the brain that control attention and activity level may be associated with ADHD. […] ADHD often runs in families. […] In very rare cases, toxins in the environment may lead to ADHD-like symptoms. For instance, lead in the body can affect child development. […] Significant head injuries may cause ADHD-like symptoms in some children. […] Preterm birth increases the risk for ADHD. […] Prenatal substance exposures, such as to alcohol or nicotine from smoking, increase the risk for ADHD-like symptoms. […] There is no scientific evidence that ADHD is caused by eating too much sugar, food additives or food colorings, allergies, or immunizations.

• #72 ADHD—What Causes Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and How Is It Treated?

  https://www.centennialpedspokane.com/behavior/ADHD%E2%80%94What-Causes-Attention-Deficit-Hyperactivity-D

  ADHD is one of the most studied conditions of childhood, and it may be caused by a number of things. Research to date has shown that ADHD is a neurobiological condition whose symptoms can also depend on the child’s environment. […] A lower level of activity in the parts of the brain that control attention and activity level may be associated with ADHD. […] ADHD often runs in families. […] In very rare cases, toxins in the environment may lead to ADHD-like symptoms. For instance, lead in the body can affect child development. […] Significant head injuries may cause ADHD-like symptoms in some children. […] Preterm birth increases the risk for ADHD. […] Prenatal substance exposures, such as to alcohol or nicotine from smoking, increase the risk for ADHD-like symptoms. […] There is no scientific evidence that ADHD is caused by eating too much sugar. […] There is no scientific evidence that ADHD is caused by food additives or food colorings. […] There is no scientific evidence that ADHD is caused by allergies. […] There is no scientific evidence that ADHD is caused by immunizations.

• #73 What causes attention deficit hyperactivity disorder?

  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3927422/

  Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects around 13% of children. ADHD is highly heritable, although there is no single causal risk factor and non-inherited factors also contribute to its aetiology. The genetic and environmental risk factors that have been implicated appear to be associated with a range of neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric outcomes, not just ADHD. ADHD, like other common medical and psychiatric disorders, is influenced by multiple genes, non-inherited factors and their interplay. There is no single cause of ADHD and exposure to a risk factor does not necessarily result in disorder. This means that any given risk factor will only be observed in a proportion of cases and will also be found in those who are unaffected. Also, risk factors that contribute to the origins of ADHD might not necessarily be the same as those that influence its course and outcomes. A further complexity is that genetic factors can exert indirect risk effects through interplay with environmental factors. Genes can alter sensitivity to environmental risks (gene-environment interaction), for example, environmental toxins or psychosocial adversity. Inherited factors can also influence the probability of exposure to certain environmental risks (gene-environment correlation). There is robust evidence from a wide range of study designs of a strong inherited contribution to ADHD. Family studies have consistently found higher rates of ADHD in parents and siblings of affected probands compared with relatives of unaffected controls. Twin studies have shown that monozygotic twin pairs have much higher concordance rates for ADHD than dizygotic twin pairs. ADHD also appears to share an inherited liability with other neurodevelopmental and psychiatric problems, notably ASDs, developmental coordination problems, reading ability, IQ, conduct and mood problems. These findings suggest the same inherited and familial risks can result in the manifestation of different clinical phenotypes. ADHD, like other common medical and psychiatric disorders, is influenced by multiple genes, non-inherited factors and their interplay. There is no single cause of ADHD and exposure to a risk factor does not necessarily result in disorder. This means that any given risk factor will only be observed in a proportion of cases and will also be found in those who are unaffected. Also, risk factors that contribute to the origins of ADHD might not necessarily be the same as those that influence its course and outcomes. Inherited factors are not the only explanation of ADHD. Although there are a number of environmental risk factors that are associated with ADHD, identifying which of these are causal is challenging. This is because many observed associations might arise as a result of symptoms/disorder in the child or the parent (reverse causation) or from unmeasured confounders that can include inherited factors. Specific environmental exposures that seem to have relevance to the ADHD phenotype include organic pollutants and lead. These may damage cognitive and neural systems known to be implicated in ADHD.

• #74 ADHD in children and youth: Part 1—Etiology, diagnosis, and comorbidity | Canadian Paediatric Society

  https://cps.ca/documents/position/adhd-etiology-diagnosis-and-comorbidity

  Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a chronic neurodevelopmental disorder. ADHD is a disorder with multiple etiologies. Combinations of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors contribute to pathogenesis and its heterogeneous phenotype. Evidence from family, twin, and adoption studies has suggested strongly that ADHD is a highly hereditary, polygenic disorder. Gene variants predicting risk for ADHD are important for brain development, cell migration, and encoding for catecholamine receptor and transporter genes. The identification of gene sets affecting neurotransmitter pathways in the brain has suggested that rare copy number variants or the accumulation of larger deletions and duplications influencing gene transcription are more commonly found in individuals with ADHD. Noninherited neurological factors affecting brain development or resulting in brain injury have been implicated in ADHD pathogenesis. The contribution of pregnancy and birth complications is mixed, but strong evidence supports greater ADHD risk following in utero exposure to alcohol or tobacco and low birth weight. Exposure to environmental toxins (specifically lead, organophosphate pesticides, and polychlorinated biphenyls) has been linked to ADHD symptoms. Neuroimaging studies point to ADHD as a disorder of early brain development. Based on volumetric and functional MRI studies, differences are found in the structural development and functional activation in the prefrontal cortex, basal ganglia, anterior cingulate cortex, and cerebellum. A delay in cortical maturation has been documented, with peak cortical thickness attained in the cerebrum at 7 years in typically developing children and at 10 years in those with ADHD. ADHD prevalence in the paediatric population has been stable over the past three decades except in the USA, where it has increased. ADHD is associated with significant adverse outcomes in childhood and adolescence: educational problems, difficult peer relationships, and increased rates of motor vehicle accidents, accidental injuries, and substance misuse. Current estimates show that 50% of children with ADHD continue to have symptoms of ADHD in adolescence and adulthood. Predictors of persistence include combined inattention/hyperactivity, increased symptom severity, comorbid major depressive or other mood disorder, high comorbidity, parental anxiety, and parental antisocial personality disorder.

• #75 ADHD in children and young people

  https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd/causes/

  ADHD is thought to be recognised less often in girls than boys. This may be because girls with ADHD more commonly have inattentive symptoms and these can be harder to recognise. […] The cause of ADHD is not always known. ADHD may be caused by genetic differences and often runs in families. […] There are several other things linked to ADHD, including being born premature (before 37 weeks of pregnancy), having epilepsy, a brain injury or being autistic.

• #76 Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adhd/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350895

  In general, a diagnosis of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is made if the core symptoms of ADHD start early in life before age 12 and create major problems at home and at school on an ongoing basis. […] Some medical conditions or their treatments may cause symptoms much like those of ADHD. Examples include: Learning or language delays. Mood disorders such as depression. Anxiety disorders. Seizure disorders. Vision or hearing conditions. Autism spectrum disorder. Medical conditions or medicines that affect thinking or behavior. Sleep disorders. Brain injury. […] Standard treatments for ADHD in children include medicines, behavior therapy, counseling and education services. These treatments can lessen many of the symptoms of ADHD, but they don’t cure it. […] Some research suggests that using ADHD stimulant medicines with certain heart problems may be a concern. Weight and growth may be affected. Also, the risk of certain mental health symptoms may be higher when using stimulant medicines.

• #77 ADHD in children and youth: Part 1—Etiology, diagnosis, and comorbidity | Canadian Paediatric Society

  https://cps.ca/documents/position/adhd-etiology-diagnosis-and-comorbidity

  Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a chronic neurodevelopmental disorder. ADHD is a disorder with multiple etiologies. Combinations of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors contribute to pathogenesis and its heterogeneous phenotype. Evidence from family, twin, and adoption studies has suggested strongly that ADHD is a highly hereditary, polygenic disorder. Gene variants predicting risk for ADHD are important for brain development, cell migration, and encoding for catecholamine receptor and transporter genes. The identification of gene sets affecting neurotransmitter pathways in the brain has suggested that rare copy number variants or the accumulation of larger deletions and duplications influencing gene transcription are more commonly found in individuals with ADHD. Noninherited neurological factors affecting brain development or resulting in brain injury have been implicated in ADHD pathogenesis. The contribution of pregnancy and birth complications is mixed, but strong evidence supports greater ADHD risk following in utero exposure to alcohol or tobacco and low birth weight. Exposure to environmental toxins (specifically lead, organophosphate pesticides, and polychlorinated biphenyls) has been linked to ADHD symptoms. Neuroimaging studies point to ADHD as a disorder of early brain development. Based on volumetric and functional MRI studies, differences are found in the structural development and functional activation in the prefrontal cortex, basal ganglia, anterior cingulate cortex, and cerebellum. A delay in cortical maturation has been documented, with peak cortical thickness attained in the cerebrum at 7 years in typically developing children and at 10 years in those with ADHD. ADHD prevalence in the paediatric population has been stable over the past three decades except in the USA, where it has increased. ADHD is associated with significant adverse outcomes in childhood and adolescence: educational problems, difficult peer relationships, and increased rates of motor vehicle accidents, accidental injuries, and substance misuse. Current estimates show that 50% of children with ADHD continue to have symptoms of ADHD in adolescence and adulthood. Predictors of persistence include combined inattention/hyperactivity, increased symptom severity, comorbid major depressive or other mood disorder, high comorbidity, parental anxiety, and parental antisocial personality disorder.

• #78 Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adhd/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350895

  In general, a diagnosis of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is made if the core symptoms of ADHD start early in life before age 12 and create major problems at home and at school on an ongoing basis. […] Some medical conditions or their treatments may cause symptoms much like those of ADHD. Examples include: Learning or language delays. Mood disorders such as depression. Anxiety disorders. Seizure disorders. Vision or hearing conditions. Autism spectrum disorder. Medical conditions or medicines that affect thinking or behavior. Sleep disorders. Brain injury. […] Standard treatments for ADHD in children include medicines, behavior therapy, counseling and education services. These treatments can lessen many of the symptoms of ADHD, but they don’t cure it. […] Some research suggests that using ADHD stimulant medicines with certain heart problems may be a concern. Weight and growth may be affected. Also, the risk of certain mental health symptoms may be higher when using stimulant medicines.

• #79 Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adhd/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350895

  In general, a diagnosis of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is made if the core symptoms of ADHD start early in life before age 12 and create major problems at home and at school on an ongoing basis. […] Some medical conditions or their treatments may cause symptoms much like those of ADHD. Examples include: Learning or language delays. Mood disorders such as depression. Anxiety disorders. Seizure disorders. Vision or hearing conditions. Autism spectrum disorder. Medical conditions or medicines that affect thinking or behavior. Sleep disorders. Brain injury. […] Standard treatments for ADHD in children include medicines, behavior therapy, counseling and education services. These treatments can lessen many of the symptoms of ADHD, but they don’t cure it. […] Some research suggests that using ADHD stimulant medicines with certain heart problems may be a concern. Weight and growth may be affected. Also, the risk of certain mental health symptoms may be higher when using stimulant medicines.

• #80 ADHD in children and youth: Part 1—Etiology, diagnosis, and comorbidity | Canadian Paediatric Society

  https://cps.ca/documents/position/adhd-etiology-diagnosis-and-comorbidity

  Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a chronic neurodevelopmental disorder. ADHD is a disorder with multiple etiologies. Combinations of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors contribute to pathogenesis and its heterogeneous phenotype. Evidence from family, twin, and adoption studies has suggested strongly that ADHD is a highly hereditary, polygenic disorder. Gene variants predicting risk for ADHD are important for brain development, cell migration, and encoding for catecholamine receptor and transporter genes. The identification of gene sets affecting neurotransmitter pathways in the brain has suggested that rare copy number variants or the accumulation of larger deletions and duplications influencing gene transcription are more commonly found in individuals with ADHD. Noninherited neurological factors affecting brain development or resulting in brain injury have been implicated in ADHD pathogenesis. The contribution of pregnancy and birth complications is mixed, but strong evidence supports greater ADHD risk following in utero exposure to alcohol or tobacco and low birth weight. Exposure to environmental toxins (specifically lead, organophosphate pesticides, and polychlorinated biphenyls) has been linked to ADHD symptoms. Neuroimaging studies point to ADHD as a disorder of early brain development. Based on volumetric and functional MRI studies, differences are found in the structural development and functional activation in the prefrontal cortex, basal ganglia, anterior cingulate cortex, and cerebellum. A delay in cortical maturation has been documented, with peak cortical thickness attained in the cerebrum at 7 years in typically developing children and at 10 years in those with ADHD. ADHD prevalence in the paediatric population has been stable over the past three decades except in the USA, where it has increased. ADHD is associated with significant adverse outcomes in childhood and adolescence: educational problems, difficult peer relationships, and increased rates of motor vehicle accidents, accidental injuries, and substance misuse. Current estimates show that 50% of children with ADHD continue to have symptoms of ADHD in adolescence and adulthood. Predictors of persistence include combined inattention/hyperactivity, increased symptom severity, comorbid major depressive or other mood disorder, high comorbidity, parental anxiety, and parental antisocial personality disorder.

• #81 ADHD in children and young people

  https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd/causes/

  ADHD is thought to be recognised less often in girls than boys. This may be because girls with ADHD more commonly have inattentive symptoms and these can be harder to recognise. […] The cause of ADHD is not always known. ADHD may be caused by genetic differences and often runs in families. […] There are several other things linked to ADHD, including being born premature (before 37 weeks of pregnancy), having epilepsy, a brain injury or being autistic.

• #82 What causes attention deficit hyperactivity disorder?

  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3927422/

  Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects around 13% of children. ADHD is highly heritable, although there is no single causal risk factor and non-inherited factors also contribute to its aetiology. The genetic and environmental risk factors that have been implicated appear to be associated with a range of neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric outcomes, not just ADHD. ADHD, like other common medical and psychiatric disorders, is influenced by multiple genes, non-inherited factors and their interplay. There is no single cause of ADHD and exposure to a risk factor does not necessarily result in disorder. This means that any given risk factor will only be observed in a proportion of cases and will also be found in those who are unaffected. Also, risk factors that contribute to the origins of ADHD might not necessarily be the same as those that influence its course and outcomes. A further complexity is that genetic factors can exert indirect risk effects through interplay with environmental factors. Genes can alter sensitivity to environmental risks (gene-environment interaction), for example, environmental toxins or psychosocial adversity. Inherited factors can also influence the probability of exposure to certain environmental risks (gene-environment correlation). There is robust evidence from a wide range of study designs of a strong inherited contribution to ADHD. Family studies have consistently found higher rates of ADHD in parents and siblings of affected probands compared with relatives of unaffected controls. Twin studies have shown that monozygotic twin pairs have much higher concordance rates for ADHD than dizygotic twin pairs. ADHD also appears to share an inherited liability with other neurodevelopmental and psychiatric problems, notably ASDs, developmental coordination problems, reading ability, IQ, conduct and mood problems. These findings suggest the same inherited and familial risks can result in the manifestation of different clinical phenotypes. ADHD, like other common medical and psychiatric disorders, is influenced by multiple genes, non-inherited factors and their interplay. There is no single cause of ADHD and exposure to a risk factor does not necessarily result in disorder. This means that any given risk factor will only be observed in a proportion of cases and will also be found in those who are unaffected. Also, risk factors that contribute to the origins of ADHD might not necessarily be the same as those that influence its course and outcomes. Inherited factors are not the only explanation of ADHD. Although there are a number of environmental risk factors that are associated with ADHD, identifying which of these are causal is challenging. This is because many observed associations might arise as a result of symptoms/disorder in the child or the parent (reverse causation) or from unmeasured confounders that can include inherited factors. Specific environmental exposures that seem to have relevance to the ADHD phenotype include organic pollutants and lead. These may damage cognitive and neural systems known to be implicated in ADHD.

• #83 What causes attention deficit hyperactivity disorder?

  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3927422/

  Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects around 13% of children. ADHD is highly heritable, although there is no single causal risk factor and non-inherited factors also contribute to its aetiology. The genetic and environmental risk factors that have been implicated appear to be associated with a range of neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric outcomes, not just ADHD. ADHD, like other common medical and psychiatric disorders, is influenced by multiple genes, non-inherited factors and their interplay. There is no single cause of ADHD and exposure to a risk factor does not necessarily result in disorder. This means that any given risk factor will only be observed in a proportion of cases and will also be found in those who are unaffected. Also, risk factors that contribute to the origins of ADHD might not necessarily be the same as those that influence its course and outcomes. A further complexity is that genetic factors can exert indirect risk effects through interplay with environmental factors. Genes can alter sensitivity to environmental risks (gene-environment interaction), for example, environmental toxins or psychosocial adversity. Inherited factors can also influence the probability of exposure to certain environmental risks (gene-environment correlation). There is robust evidence from a wide range of study designs of a strong inherited contribution to ADHD. Family studies have consistently found higher rates of ADHD in parents and siblings of affected probands compared with relatives of unaffected controls. Twin studies have shown that monozygotic twin pairs have much higher concordance rates for ADHD than dizygotic twin pairs. ADHD also appears to share an inherited liability with other neurodevelopmental and psychiatric problems, notably ASDs, developmental coordination problems, reading ability, IQ, conduct and mood problems. These findings suggest the same inherited and familial risks can result in the manifestation of different clinical phenotypes. ADHD, like other common medical and psychiatric disorders, is influenced by multiple genes, non-inherited factors and their interplay. There is no single cause of ADHD and exposure to a risk factor does not necessarily result in disorder. This means that any given risk factor will only be observed in a proportion of cases and will also be found in those who are unaffected. Also, risk factors that contribute to the origins of ADHD might not necessarily be the same as those that influence its course and outcomes. Inherited factors are not the only explanation of ADHD. Although there are a number of environmental risk factors that are associated with ADHD, identifying which of these are causal is challenging. This is because many observed associations might arise as a result of symptoms/disorder in the child or the parent (reverse causation) or from unmeasured confounders that can include inherited factors. Specific environmental exposures that seem to have relevance to the ADHD phenotype include organic pollutants and lead. These may damage cognitive and neural systems known to be implicated in ADHD.

• #84 Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adhd/symptoms-causes/syc-20350889

  Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children, also called ADHD, is a long-term condition that affects millions of children. While the exact cause of ADHD is not clear, research efforts continue. Factors that may be involved in the development of ADHD include genetics, the environment or central nervous system conditions at key moments in development. ADHD occurs more often in boys than in girls. Although many people seem to believe that sugar causes hyperactivity, there’s no proof of this. Many issues in childhood can lead to trouble paying attention, but that’s not the same as ADHD. […] Risk factors for ADHD may include having a blood relative, such as a parent or sibling, with ADHD or another mental health condition, being around environmental toxins such as lead, being born to a parent who used recreational drugs, alcohol or tobacco during pregnancy, and being born too early, also called premature birth.

• #85 Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: MedlinePlus Medical EncyclopediaLock

  https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001551.htm

  Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a problem caused by the presence of one or more of these findings: […] It is not clear what causes ADHD. It may be linked to genes and home or social factors. Experts have found that the brains of children with ADHD are different from those of children without ADHD. Brain chemicals are also different. […] ADHD often begins in childhood. But it may continue into the adult years. ADHD is diagnosed more often in boys than in girls.

• #86 ADHD in children and young people

  https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd/causes/

  ADHD is thought to be recognised less often in girls than boys. This may be because girls with ADHD more commonly have inattentive symptoms and these can be harder to recognise. […] The cause of ADHD is not always known. ADHD may be caused by genetic differences and often runs in families. […] There are several other things linked to ADHD, including being born premature (before 37 weeks of pregnancy), having epilepsy, a brain injury or being autistic.

• #87 ADHD in children and young people

  https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd/causes/

  ADHD is thought to be recognised less often in girls than boys. This may be because girls with ADHD more commonly have inattentive symptoms and these can be harder to recognise. […] The cause of ADHD is not always known. ADHD may be caused by genetic differences and often runs in families. […] There are several other things linked to ADHD, including being born premature (before 37 weeks of pregnancy), having epilepsy, a brain injury or being autistic.

• #88 What causes attention deficit hyperactivity disorder? | Archives of Disease in Childhood

  https://adc.bmj.com/content/97/3/260

  In summary, there is strong evidence of an inherited contribution to ADHD, although non-inherited factors that likely include environmental risks and chance events (including de novo genetic changes) are also important. There is no single cause of ADHD and the risk factors that have been identified so far appear to be non-specific.

• #89 What Are the Causes of ADHD?

  https://www.verywellmind.com/what-causes-adhd-20465

  There’s also evidence that using some substances during pregnancy increases the risk that the child will develop ADHD. […] It’s likely that ADHD stems from a variety of causes. Someone who has a genetic predisposition, for example, may encounter environmental factors that also contribute to the development of ADHD. Toxins, exposure to substances during prenatal development, certain types of infections, and brain injuries can increase the risk that a person will develop ADHD.

• #90 ADHD in children and youth: Part 1—Etiology, diagnosis, and comorbidity | Canadian Paediatric Society

  https://cps.ca/documents/position/adhd-etiology-diagnosis-and-comorbidity

  Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a chronic neurodevelopmental disorder. ADHD is a disorder with multiple etiologies. Combinations of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors contribute to pathogenesis and its heterogeneous phenotype. Evidence from family, twin, and adoption studies has suggested strongly that ADHD is a highly hereditary, polygenic disorder. Gene variants predicting risk for ADHD are important for brain development, cell migration, and encoding for catecholamine receptor and transporter genes. The identification of gene sets affecting neurotransmitter pathways in the brain has suggested that rare copy number variants or the accumulation of larger deletions and duplications influencing gene transcription are more commonly found in individuals with ADHD. Noninherited neurological factors affecting brain development or resulting in brain injury have been implicated in ADHD pathogenesis. The contribution of pregnancy and birth complications is mixed, but strong evidence supports greater ADHD risk following in utero exposure to alcohol or tobacco and low birth weight. Exposure to environmental toxins (specifically lead, organophosphate pesticides, and polychlorinated biphenyls) has been linked to ADHD symptoms. Neuroimaging studies point to ADHD as a disorder of early brain development. Based on volumetric and functional MRI studies, differences are found in the structural development and functional activation in the prefrontal cortex, basal ganglia, anterior cingulate cortex, and cerebellum. A delay in cortical maturation has been documented, with peak cortical thickness attained in the cerebrum at 7 years in typically developing children and at 10 years in those with ADHD. ADHD prevalence in the paediatric population has been stable over the past three decades except in the USA, where it has increased. ADHD is associated with significant adverse outcomes in childhood and adolescence: educational problems, difficult peer relationships, and increased rates of motor vehicle accidents, accidental injuries, and substance misuse. Current estimates show that 50% of children with ADHD continue to have symptoms of ADHD in adolescence and adulthood. Predictors of persistence include combined inattention/hyperactivity, increased symptom severity, comorbid major depressive or other mood disorder, high comorbidity, parental anxiety, and parental antisocial personality disorder.

• #91 Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Symptoms & Causes | NewYork-Presbyterian

  https://www.nyp.org/pediatrics/child-and-adolescent-psychiatry/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd

  What Causes ADHD in Children? The exact cause of ADHD is unknown. Research suggests it may be due to a combination of genetics, environment, and other factors that may have caused injury to the nervous system early on, like prematurity. […] Risk factors for ADHD include: Genetics – having a close relative with ADHD, including a parent or a sibling […] Currently, there is no known way to prevent ADHD. Pregnant persons should avoid smoking cigarettes, drinking alcohol, and using drugs, which may help reduce the risk of ADHD and other issues in the child’s behavior.

• #92 Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Children, Adolescents and Teens | Phoenix Children’s Hospital

  https://phoenixchildrens.org/specialties-conditions/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd-children-adolescents-and-teens

  ADHD is one of the most researched areas in child and adolescent mental health. However, the precise cause of the disorder is still unknown. Available evidence suggests that ADHD is genetic. It is a brain-based biological disorder. Low levels of dopamine (a brain chemical), which is a neurotransmitter (a type of brain chemical), are found in children with ADHD. Brain imaging studies using PET scanners (positron emission tomography; a form of brain imaging that makes it possible to observe the human brain at work) show that brain metabolism in children with ADHD is lower in the areas of the brain that control attention, social judgment, and movement. […] Preventive measures to reduce the incidence of ADHD in children are not known at this time. However, early detection and intervention can reduce the severity of symptoms, decrease the interference of behavioral symptoms on school functioning, enhance the child’s normal growth and development, and improve the quality of life experienced by children or adolescents with ADHD.

• #93

  https://www.aacap.org/AACAP/Families_and_Youth/Facts_for_Families/FFF-Guide/Children-Who-Cant-Pay-Attention-Attention-Deficit-Hyperactivity-Disorder-006.aspx

  Parents are distressed when they receive a note from school saying that their child won’t listen to the teacher or causes trouble in class. One possible reason for this kind of behavior is Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). […] ADHD occurs in 3-5% of school age children. ADHD typically begin in childhood but can continue into adulthood. ADHD runs in families with about 25% of biological parents also having this medical condition. […] A child presenting with ADHD symptoms should have a comprehensive evaluation. Parents should ask their pediatrician or family physician to refer them to a child and adolescent psychiatrist, who can diagnose and treat this medical condition. […] Research clearly demonstrates that medication can help improve attention, focus, goal directed behavior, and organizational skills. […] A child who is diagnosed with ADHD and treated appropriately can have a productive and successful life.

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