The study was conducted by scientists from University College London and the University of Liverpool, during which they analyzed health data for 10,930 people from the moment of their birth until they reached the age of 46. They also assessed symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder using questionnaires that were conducted in childhood for the participants by parents and teachers.
The results showed that participants who exhibited clear signs of ADHD at age 10 were 14% more likely to develop two or more physical illnesses by age 46. These illnesses included, in particular, migraines, back pain, diabetes, epilepsy, and cancer. In middle age, 42% of those who showed signs of ADHD in childhood had two or more diagnoses, compared to 37% among the other participants.
It also emerged that participants with ADHD were more likely to report physical disabilities—that is, difficulties with work and daily activities due to their condition. Researchers attributed this association to factors associated with ADHD, such as a higher body mass index, frequent smoking, and increased mental health problems. Previous studies have also shown that individuals with ADHD are more prone to stress, social isolation, and delays in seeking medical care.
The researchers noted that the relationship between signs of ADHD in childhood and physical impairment in adulthood was more pronounced in women than in men.
