Adding up ADHD risks
Did you know that for kids, high intelligence, supportive parents, or a structured school environment might mask a case of mild ADHD for years? But when those kids enter the stressful world of adult responsibilities at work, home and with friends, it can seem like they've suddenly developed the condition. Not so. The 15.5 million adults in the U.S. with ADHD most likely had it their whole lives, even if they were only recently diagnosed. (That lack of diagnosis may account for why many sources say just 7.1 million children in the U.S. have ADHD.)
But whenever you find out you have ADHD, a new study shows that it puts you at risk for more than attention and focus problems. The results, published in JAMA Psychiatry, found that folks with ADHD may be 400% more likely to develop mild cognition problems or dementia.
The good news? The findings don't prove cause and effect -- only association. And the fact that it's "associated with" means that if you have ADHD, you can reduce your risk for ADHD-related dementia.
How? By attending to mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety and chronic stress; establishing a posse (join ADHD support groups); finding a passion and sense of purpose; pursuing formal and informal educational opportunities; adopting a plant-based diet, free of highly processed foods; and getting plenty of exercise and a lot of fun.
For support, contact chadd.org or add.org. And to adopt habits that may improve ADHD and reduce the risk of dementia, explore my blog at michaelfroizenmd.substack.com.
Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at drmikerealage@gmail.com.
(c)2026 Michael Roizen, M.D.
Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
(c) 2026 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
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