Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and adverse health outcomes
Shihua Sun has investigated the associations between attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and specific adverse outcomes including asthma and premature death. In his thesis, Shihua included four studies to clarify the magnitude and etiology of the associations, as well as potential effects from medication treatment that may prevent poor prognosis.
ADHD is the most commonly diagnosed neurodevelopmental disorder, characterized by persistent inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that are inappropriate for one’s developmental stage. Individuals with ADHD also suffer from adverse outcomes including somatic and psychiatric comorbidities. In his studies, Shihua found that individuals with ADHD are at increased risk of adverse outcomes including somatic conditions such as asthma and severe adversities such as premature death. Shared genetic factors largely explained the association between asthma and ADHD, indicating the significance of detecting within-individual and family history of either disorder for preventing delayed diagnosis of the other condition. Moreover, psychiatric comorbidities and medication treatment play crucial roles in understanding the mechanisms of ADHD associated mortality risks and in preventing premature deaths among individuals with ADHD.
On Dec 15, Shihua will defend his thesis “Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and adverse health outcomes: from association to prevention”. His opponent is Professor Joel Nigg from the Department of Psychiatry at Oregon Health & Science University. Shihua’s supervisors are Henrik Larsson, Ralf Kuja-Halkola and Zheng Chang.
Time: 16:00
Location: Lecture hall Petrén, Nobels väg 12B, Karolinska Institutet, Solna
Join by Zoom: https://ki-se.zoom.us/j/63819693794
Read the thesis in KI’s open archive: https://openarchive.ki.se/xmlui/handle/10616/47418