Adult ADHD is associated with a higher risk for dementia… Not so fast!

It’s not your imagination; ADHD + Dementia have been all over the news together lately. Take a look at this screenshot of trending searches on Google as an example. But is the connection between dementia and ADHD accurate?

Thank god we have sane, rational, scientific minds like Dr. Russell Barkley to comment on such sensationalized stories on his excellent YouTube Channel, Russell Barkley, PhD - Dedicated to ADHD Science+, which we highly recommend you subscribe to.

Here are some intriguing insights from a recent video where he dives into the recent buzz about this possible connection between adult ADHD and dementia.

In a nutshell, a recent research paper published in the Journal of the American Medical Association sent shockwaves through the media by reporting a three-fold increase in the risk of dementia among adults with ADHD. While this might sound alarming, there's more to the story than meets the eye, and it's crucial to explore the research's finer details for a well-rounded understanding.

First off, this study was conducted in Israel, and although it featured an impressive sample size of roughly 19,000 participants, it's essential to remember that the Israeli population may not accurately represent the wider population of adults with ADHD, whether in the United States or other parts of the world. Different genetic risks might be at play.

Another significant factor is the age group studied. The research specifically focused on individuals in their 50s who developed ADHD later in life. This is a crucial point because it doesn't include those who were diagnosed with ADHD in childhood or earlier adulthood. So, what the study implies is that late-onset ADHD might be a precursor or risk factor for dementia in later life, but it doesn't provide insights into the broader population of individuals with a history of ADHD.

Nevertheless, the plot thickens when we look at other research. Studies from Taiwan, the United States, and Sweden have also explored the link between ADHD and dementia, and they've found similar patterns, with ADHD potentially increasing the risk of dementia by about three to fourfold after accounting for various factors.

Diet, exercise, and obesity are known risk factors for dementia - and dental care.

So, what might be causing this connection? Genetics is one possibility, as both conditions may share some genetic risk factors. Lifestyle factors, like diet, exercise, and obesity, could also be contributing, as they are known risk factors for dementia. Interestingly, dental hygiene may also play a role, as individuals with ADHD may not maintain their dental health as effectively as others, and dental health has been linked to dementia.

But, before we rush to draw conclusions, it's important to acknowledge the existence of confounding factors. For instance, the presence of diabetes appears to influence the relationship between severe ADHD and the likelihood of developing dementia.

Furthermore, a Swedish study delves into the risk of dementia across generations. It suggests that there might be a shared genetic risk between ADHD and Alzheimer's disease, particularly among parents of individuals with ADHD, indicating a complex interplay of genetic factors.

Exercise caution and consider the limitations of each study.

In summary, while these studies hint at a potential link between adult ADHD and dementia, it's paramount to exercise caution and consider the limitations of each study. This is a multifaceted issue with several confounding factors that require further investigation. Therefore, we should resist the urge to sensationalize the findings. Instead, let's acknowledge that more research is needed to gain a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between adult ADHD and dementia.

As research unfolds, we'll keep a watchful eye on the topic and share it in our email newsletter. If you found this information valuable, please pass it along to other Wise Squirrels. And don’t forget to follow Dr. Russ Barkley!