Children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are at an increased risk for being overweight, regardless of whether or not they take medication. The results of prior research has suggested that the impulsivity and poor behavioural regulation that is common in children with ADHD may promote certain eating patterns that increase the risk of obesity. Researchers from America analysed data from 62,887 children and adolescent (5-17 years old). Children with ADHD were identified based on the response of parents to the question: Has a doctor or health professional ever told you that your child has attention-deficit disorder or attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder? The prevalence of ADD or ADHD was 9 percent and approximately half the affected children were taking medication for the condition. After accounting for demographic factors as well as depression and anxiety, it was found that ADHD patients who were not being treated with medication were 1.5-times more likely to be overweight than children without the disorder. The risk for ADHD among those who were currently receiving medications was only about 0.5 times higher than children without ADHD. Future studies are, however, needed to better understand the longitudinal and pharmacologic factors that influence the relationship between ADD/ADHD and weight status in children and adolescents.
Pediatrics
August 2008