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Early vocabulary size is genetically linked to ADHD, literacy, and cognition

A genome-wide meta-analysis study found that early vocabulary size is genetically linked to ADHD, literacy and cognitive abilities in children. The study used data from over 17,000 English-, Danish- or Dutch-speaking children and identified multiple genetic factors underlying vocabulary size in infancy and toddlerhood.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics·JournalBiological Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 1, 2024

Uptick in behavioral disorders reported in children following prenatal exposure to anesthesia

A new study published at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health found that prenatal exposure to general anesthesia for maternal surgery during pregnancy significantly increases the risk of disruptive or internalizing behavioral disorders, including ADHD and autism, in children. The study suggests that safer anesthetic drug...

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalBritish Journal of Anaesthesia·DateFeb 29, 2024

How parents can help prevent the development of ADHD symptoms

A new study published by a University of Waterloo researcher suggests that specific parenting behaviors, such as guiding verbal and physical cues, can help break down pathways leading to ADHD symptoms. Early targeted intervention is crucial in predicting the development of ADHD symptoms in children with exuberant temperament.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalResearch on Child and Adolescent Psychopathology·DateFeb 15, 2024

New study shows nutritional epigenetics education improves diet and attitude in parents of children with autism and ADHD

Parents who received nutritional epigenetics education reduced ultra-processed food consumption and increased whole organic foods intake, leading to improved behavior and cognition in their children. The education intervention also reduced heavy metal exposures and dietary deficits that disrupt gene function.

SourceFood Ingredient and Health Research Institute·JournalWorld Journal of Psychiatry·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 9, 2024

WVU researcher determines ADHD gives entrepreneurs an edge

A study by WVU researcher Nancy McIntyre reveals that individuals with ADHD tend to use routines and patterns to store stimuli from their environment, allowing them to make connections and file away resources for future use. This helps entrepreneurs with ADHD excel in qualities such as alertness, adaptability, and entrepreneurial intent.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalInternational Journal of Entrepreneurial Behaviour & Research·DateFeb 6, 2024

The pedigree of brain cells

Researchers have mapped the lineage of neural stem cells in the superior colliculus, revealing an exceptional capacity to generate different types of neurons. The study also found that neural stem cells retain their ability to produce any type of neuron until the end of development.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2023

Study explores accuracy of computerized ADHD test

A new study has found that the QbTest, a widely used computerized test for Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), is not accurate enough to be used as a standalone diagnostic tool. The researchers emphasize that the QbTest should be used in conjunction with clinical assessment and judgment to arrive at a diagnosis.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateDec 13, 2023

AI screens for autism in the blink of an eye

Researchers have developed an AI-powered system to diagnose autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children using a single flash of light to the eye. The system uses electroretinography (ERG) to identify specific features that classify ASD, providing a faster and more accurate method for diagnosis than existing tests.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalResearch in Autism Spectrum Disorders·TypeCase study·DateDec 12, 2023

Children born moderately early are at an increased risk of developmental disorders, according to new research

A new study found that children born moderately early are at an increased risk of developmental disorders, including language delay, cognitive impairment, ADHD, and cerebral palsy. The study analyzed data from over 8 million children and identified a small but significant increase in risk for most developmental disorders.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalPEDIATRICS·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 7, 2023

Children with ADHD frequently use healthcare service before diagnosis, study finds

A recent study by University of Nottingham researchers found that children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) use healthcare services twice as often in the two years before their diagnosis. Children with ADHD are also more likely to see their GP, receive prescriptions, attend hospital for overnight admissions, and hav...

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalArchives of Disease in Childhood·TypeObservational study·DateOct 31, 2023

Treating amphetamine use disorder with stimulants: an encouraging new approach

A new meta-analysis suggests that high-dose prescription psychostimulants like methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine can lower cravings and reduce stimulant use in people with amphetamine-type stimulant use disorder. The study analyzed ten randomized controlled trials and found that effects may increase with higher dosage.

SourceSociety for the Study of Addiction·JournalAddiction·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 26, 2023

Youngest children in class with ADHD as likely to keep diagnosis in adulthood as older pupils, find scientists

Children diagnosed with ADHD at a young age are just as likely to retain the diagnosis in adulthood as their older peers, according to a new study. The research, which examined data from over 6,500 patients globally, suggests that the youngest children in class are not more likely to lose the diagnosis over time.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 26, 2023

New distractibility “d factor” may be linked with ADHD

Researchers identified a novel measure, the 'd factor', linking distractibility with ADHD symptoms and hyperfocus. The study found strong statistical links between external distraction, intrusive thoughts, and mind-wandering, suggesting a general distractibility trait.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeSurvey·DateOct 25, 2023

Research shows strong link between ADHD and car crashes in older adult drivers

A study by Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health found a significant association between attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and crash risk among older adult drivers. Older adults with ADHD were more than twice as likely to report traffic tickets and vehicular crashes compared to their counterparts without ADHD.

NTU Singapore scientists find new evidence to explain how we pay attention

Researchers uncover clues about how chemicals released by brain cells regulate our attention span, finding that two neurotransmitters work together in a precise sequence to regulate signal transmission. This discovery could lead to new treatments for neurological conditions associated with concentration difficulties.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 21, 2023

Underutilized antidepressant treatment for postnatal depression associated with improved child outcomes at age five

Research found that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) treatment for postnatal depression was associated with reduced child behavioral difficulties, ADHD symptoms, and maternal depression. The study also suggested long-term benefits of SSRI treatment on child outcomes up to five years after childbirth.

SourceKing's College London·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateAug 29, 2023

Significant rise in ADHD diagnoses in the UK

A significant rise in ADHD diagnoses and prescriptions was observed in the UK over the past two decades, with a higher increase among adults. The study found that ADHD was more commonly diagnosed in children and boys than girls and women, and that the number of individuals receiving medication for ADHD increased significantly.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalBJPsych Open·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 16, 2023

Treating childhood ADHD with stimulant meds not associated with increased substance use later in life, study finds

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine found no evidence that prescription stimulant treatment in childhood increases the risk of substance use disorder (SUD) later in life. The study, published in JAMA Psychiatry, suggests that stimulants are an effective treatment for ADHD with few side effects.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateJul 5, 2023

Treatment of children with ADHD

A recent study reveals that many children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are not receiving adequate treatment. The findings highlight the need for improved communication and access to outpatient mental health care for children with ADHD.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 28, 2023

Problems with ‘pruning’ brain connections linked to adolescent mental health disorders

Research suggests that problems with the brain's ability to 'prune' itself of unnecessary connections may underlie a wide range of mental health disorders that begin during adolescence. Adolescents experiencing mental health problems showed similar patterns of brain activity, which were largely apparent in the frontal lobes.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 24, 2023

Eating walnuts on a regular basis could benefit adolescents' cognitive development and contribute to their psychological maturation

A recent study published in eClinicalMedicine found that eating walnuts on a regular basis can improve attention functions, fluid intelligence, and behavior in adolescents with ADHD. The research, led by the IISPV, suggests that following a healthy diet is crucial for cognitive development during adolescence.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalEClinicalMedicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 19, 2023

RCSI study finds early signs that may help predict ADHD risk

Researchers from RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences identified 17 factors that can predict ADHD symptoms in childhood, including sex, cigarette smoke exposure, and mother's urinary tract infections. The study suggests that prenatal information may help identify children at risk of developing ADHD, particularly when combine...

SourceRCSI·JournalDevelopment and Psychopathology·DateApr 18, 2023

School prevalence of stimulant therapy for ADHD associated with higher rates of prescription stimulant misuse among teens

A new study found a strong association between the prevalence of prescription stimulant therapy for ADHD and rates of prescription stimulant misuse among middle and high school students. Schools with higher numbers of students on stimulant therapy had significantly higher rates of misused stimulants, highlighting the need for education...

SourceNIH/National Institute on Drug Abuse·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 18, 2023

HKUMed and University of Melbourne-led global research team confirms the long-term safety of methylphenidate in children and adolescents with ADHD

A global research team found that long-term methylphenidate treatment does not increase the risk of growth impairments or psychiatric events, but may lead to modest increases in blood pressure. The study suggests potential disparities in ADHD medication access by country-income levels.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 28, 2023

The far-reaching consequences of child abuse

A new study published by researchers at Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin found a significant link between early childhood trauma experienced by mothers and various health problems in their children. The research analyzed data from over 4,300 American mothers and their children, revealing that children of mothers with adverse experi...

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·DateFeb 24, 2023

Mothers’ alcohol consumption before and during pregnancy is linked to changes in children’s face shapes

A recent study published in Human Reproduction found a significant association between prenatal alcohol exposure and changes in children's facial features. The research used AI to analyze three-dimensional images of children's faces at ages nine and thirteen, revealing that mothers' alcohol consumption before and during pregnancy can h...

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 15, 2023

Researchers unveil new collection of human brain atlases that chart postnatal development

Researchers created monthly infant brain atlases to track normative trends in brain development. The atlases reveal changes in brain structure, cortical geometry, and tissue contrast, shedding light on conditions like ADHD and dyslexia. The study aims to facilitate discovery of new insights into child cognition and social behavior.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNature Methods·TypeImaging analysis·DateJan 26, 2023

The link between mental health and ADHD is strong – so why aren’t we paying attention?

A new UK study led by psychologists at the University of Bath reveals that adults with high levels of ADHD symptoms are more likely to experience anxiety and depression than those with autistic traits. The study, published in Scientific Reports, uses innovative analytical techniques to confirm a strong link between ADHD personality tra...

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 16, 2023

Does diabetes during pregnancy increase the risk of neurodevelopmental conditions in children?

Research published in Developmental Medicine & Child Neurology reveals a link between maternal diabetes and neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism, ADHD, and intellectual disability in children. Type 1 and type 2 diabetes were associated with increased risks of these conditions, while gestational diabetes was linked to autism spec...

SourceWiley·JournalDevelopmental Medicine & Child Neurology·DateDec 21, 2022

Researchers gain a better understanding of how the most commonly used ADHD medication works

A new study has shed light on how the most commonly used ADHD medication, methylphenidate, works in the brain. The research found that methylphenidate increases dopamine levels in the nucleus accumbens and improves coordinated brain network activity, resulting in more stable sustained attention in children with ADHD.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging·TypeObservational study·DateDec 8, 2022