LI Cardiologist Discusses New Study Linking ADHD With Heart Disease

GREAT NECK, NY — A new study shows a link between adults having attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and heart disease.

The study, detailed in the latest edition of World Psychiatry, doesn't prove ADHD causes cardiovascular disease, only that the two conditions seem to be associated, according to the research.

Dr. Benjamin Hirsh, a cardiologist with Northwell Health in Great Neck, is not one of the study's researchers but weighed in on the data for Patch AM.

"What this study has taught us, is that kids who were diagnosed with ADHD from the age of 7-10 are now 45 and 50," Dr. Hirsh said. "We're now starting to see the effects this far out."

What health professionals like Dr. Hirsh are finding is that "contrary to popular belief, it's not the amphetamines that are driving increased cardiovascular risk, it's the underlying disease, just like depression."

While medicines are prescribed for many with ADHD, it's not given to all patients. Behavioral treatments can help and "exercise has been shown to really improve the focus and attention, and ultimately achieving the goals for people with ADHD," Hirsh said.

Something else the study indicates is adults with ADHD should get annual check-ups with a cardiologist.

"That is crystal clear," Dr. Hirsh said.