Association between atopic diseases and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in childhood: a population-based

Jeng-Dau Tsai1, Shih-Ni Chang, Chih-Hsin Mou

  • 1Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.

Annals of Epidemiology
|February 5, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have a higher risk of atopic diseases (AD), particularly allergic rhinitis. Early awareness of these comorbidities can improve pediatric patient management.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Medicine
  • Psychiatry
  • Allergology

Background:

  • Atopic diseases (AD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are prevalent pediatric conditions.
  • Both disorders can lead to significant mental and physical health complications in children.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the correlation between the risk of ADHD and the presence of AD in a pediatric population.
  • To determine if specific atopic conditions are associated with an increased likelihood of ADHD.

Main Methods:

  • A population-based case-control study utilizing a Longitudinal Health Insurance Database (2002-2009).
  • Enrolled 4,692 children diagnosed with ADHD and 18,768 matched controls.
  • Calculated odds ratios (OR) to assess the association between ADHD and AD.

Main Results:

  • Children with ADHD exhibited a significantly higher prevalence of AD, especially allergic rhinitis (OR=1.81) and allergic conjunctivitis (OR=1.69).
  • Atopic dermatitis (OR=1.80) and asthma (OR=1.48) were also associated with a higher risk of ADHD.
  • ADHD risk was elevated in urban areas and increased with the number of AD diagnoses and the child's age.

Conclusions:

  • A strong association exists between ADHD and atopic diseases in children, with allergic rhinitis being particularly prominent.
  • Recognizing these comorbidities is crucial for comprehensive clinical management and reducing disease burden in pediatric patients.
Abstract

Related Concept Videos

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder01:30

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It affects approximately 5-8% of children globally, with around 60-70% of cases persisting into adulthood. ADHD has significant implications for educational attainment, social interactions, and occupational success.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
Autism Spectrum Disorder01:19

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction alongside restrictive and repetitive behaviors or interests. ASD is sometimes accompanied by intellectual impairment.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
Conduct Disorder01:28

Conduct Disorder

Conduct disorder is a complex mental health diagnosis characterized by a repetitive and persistent pattern of behavior that violates societal norms, the rights of others, or age-appropriate rules. The diagnostic criteria for conduct disorder require the presence of at least three problematic behaviors within the past 12 months, with at least one occurring in the past six months. These behaviors are grouped into four categories: aggression toward people and animals; destruction of property;...
Oppositional Defiant Disorder01:30

Oppositional Defiant Disorder

A persistent pattern of angry or irritable mood, defiant behavior, or vindictiveness characterizes Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD). Symptoms must occur over at least six months, involve interactions with individuals beyond siblings, and meet specific diagnostic criteria to be clinically significant. The disorder affects emotional regulation, social interactions, and behavior, often manifesting early in life and influencing long-term development and functioning.
Diagnostic Criteria and...
Asthma I: Introduction01:28

Asthma I: Introduction

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways characterized by variable airflow obstruction and heightened bronchial responsiveness to a wide range of triggers. The underlying inflammation leads to airway swelling, mucus hypersecretion, and smooth muscle constriction, all of which narrow the airway lumen and impede airflow. Clinically, asthma presents with recurrent episodes of wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing, symptoms that typically vary in intensity and...
Human Genetics01:28

Human Genetics

Human genetics provides a profound framework for understanding the interplay between genetic predispositions and human psychology. At the heart of this discipline lies the study of how genes influence physical traits, behaviors, and susceptibility to diseases. Each person carries a unique genetic code that subtly or significantly shapes their psychological and behavioral landscape.
The complex relationship between genetics and psychology is observable through common biological components such...