ADHD increases the risk of complications in hypertension, a global study shows
- ADHD doubles the risk of heart attack and stroke in hypertensives
- Overall mortality in the group is 45% higher
- Low adherence to treatment is considered the main reason
- More careful monitoring and support is recommended
Scientists from five different countries joined forces for a large epidemiological study aimed at determining how the presence of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects the course of hypertension. The study involved more than 150,000 adult patients with a confirmed diagnosis of arterial hypertension, of which about 12,000 also had ADHD.
Key Findings
Data analysis showed that individuals suffering from both hypertension and ADHD had nearly double the risk of severe cardiovascular complications – myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke, or sudden cardiac death – compared to patients without ADHD. Additionally, there was a significant increase in overall mortality: the risk of death from any cause in this group was found to be 45% higher than in the control group.
The increased risk persisted after adjusting for age, gender, education level, smoking, cholesterol levels, and other known factors affecting cardiovascular health. This indicates that the relationship between ADHD and adverse outcomes is not solely explained by accompanying habits or demographic characteristics.
Researchers suggest one possible reason for this correlation is the low adherence to hypertension treatment in patients with ADHD. Symptoms of the disorder, such as impulsivity, planning difficulties, and adherence issues, may hinder regular intake of antihypertensive medications, blood pressure monitoring, and following doctor's recommendations.
Such findings are consistent with previously published data indicating that people with ADHD are more likely to face challenges in managing chronic conditions, including diabetes and obesity. Therefore, worsening control over blood pressure may become a key factor contributing to the increased incidence of heart attacks and strokes.
The practical implications of the study highlight the need for more careful monitoring of patients with hypertension who are also diagnosed with ADHD. Physicians are advised to consider potential difficulties in treatment adherence, offer simplified medication regimens, use reminders, and involve mental health specialists for support.
Thus, the obtained data underscore the importance of an integrated approach to treatment, where cardiovascular and psychiatric aspects of health are considered together. Identifying and correcting adherence issues can reduce the risk of severe cardiovascular events and improve the overall lifespan of patients with hypertension and ADHD.
Source: N+1
