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As a health writer with personal experience in navigating the challenges of having symptoms taken seriously, I am acutely aware of the differences in diagnostic and treatment approaches for serious medical issues between genders. However, the focus of this discussion today is on the risk factors associated with dementia.
It has been observed that a particular, often ignored, condition can boost the likelihood of developing dementia by a factor of two to three, according to recent research. This condition is alarmingly under-identified in women.
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My knowledge on this topic is informed not only by statistics but by my personal experience—I received my diagnosis significantly later than would have been ideal.
ADHD: A Silent Condition Increasing Dementia Risk
The focus here is on Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), which affected my educational experiences deeply. Statistics show that boys are nearly double the number of girls diagnosed with ADHD during childhood, as reported by CDC data. This trend appears to persist into adulthood, with an estimated 55% of undiagnosed ADHD cases found in women.
A notable recent study from the Psychiatric University Hospital in Zurich, Switzerland, delves into the connection between ADHD and dementia, providing new insights into how ADHD may hasten cognitive decline as we age.
Related: Women With This Condition May Be at Higher Risk of Dementia, According to Study
Understanding the ADHD-Dementia Relationship
This research, published in Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences, investigates whether adults with ADHD display early symptoms of brain changes often associated with aging—mainly concerning elevated iron levels, which are linked to conditions such as Alzheimer’s.
Additionally, the researchers examined signs of neuroaxonal damage, which indicate strain on the brain’s wiring that could lead to cognitive decline.
The study involved brain imaging, blood analysis, and lifestyle assessments from 32 adults diagnosed with ADHD, averaging 35 years of age, and a control group of 29 similar adults without the diagnosis.
Related: This Common Problem May Actually Be an Early Sign of Dementia, According to a Neuroscientist
Findings: Iron Accumulation and Cell Stress
The results revealed that adults with ADHD had noticeably higher iron levels in specific brain regions, particularly in the right precentral cortex, which is crucial for movement and attention.
Moreover, the increased iron levels correlated with heightened levels of neurofilament light chain (NfL) in the blood, pointing to possible stress or damage to brain cells. Notably, there were no significant lifestyle differences like body mass index or smoking between the two groups, indicating that factors unrelated to lifestyle contributed to the iron buildup.
In simpler terms, while some iron accumulation in the brain is typical with aging, excessive concentrations in certain areas might foreshadow long-lasting cognitive issues.
Related: What Women Should Know About Alzheimer’s Risk
Implications for Individuals with ADHD
If you or someone close to you has ADHD, there is no need for alarm; there are proactive steps that can help lower the risk of cognitive decline.
Be Aware of Brain Health.
This study suggests that those with ADHD could benefit from regular brain health monitoring. Discuss with a physician about establishing baseline cognitive assessments in areas such as memory and attention, which can bring peace of mind. Do not ignore any noticeable changes like forgetfulness or confusion—consult a medical professional promptly if you sense something is amiss.
Seek Appropriate Treatment.
For women and other groups that are often underdiagnosed, securing the right treatment is crucial. If you think you might have ADHD, it’s essential to advocate for a thorough diagnosis—this could have a significant bearing on your long-term brain health. Don’t hesitate to switch healthcare providers if necessary.
Related: This Everyday Pain Reliever Could Help Prevent Dementia
Stay Committed to Treatment.
Being diligent with ADHD treatment—whether that involves medication, behavioral strategies, or a combination—can alleviate the cognitive demands and stress on the brain. Some evidence even indicates that effective ADHD treatment may reduce the risk of future cognitive problems.
Engage Your Brain.
Keeping your mind active through challenging hobbies is beneficial. Learning a new skill, playing a musical instrument, or solving puzzles can sharpen your cognitive abilities. Additionally, maintaining social connections is important, as loneliness can significantly elevate the risk of cognitive decline.
Related: Doing This for Just 5 Minutes a Day Can Lower Your Dementia Risk by 41%
Adopt a Brain-Healthy Lifestyle.
Statistically, adults with ADHD tend to experience higher rates of cardiovascular risks linked to smoking, obesity, and poor sleep, all of which contribute to increased dementia risk. Addressing these factors can benefit both ADHD management and brain health.
Taking proactive steps such as engaging in regular exercise, following a Mediterranean-style diet, ensuring quality sleep, managing stress, avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption can create protective effects for the brain. And don’t forget, it’s important to indulge in moderation as well—treat yourself to some brain-healthy chocolate!
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Related: This Super Simple Diet Could Lower Your Alzheimer’s Risk by 53%
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