Lead exposure contributes to ADHD
Lead plays a role in the development of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
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Lead plays a role in the development of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Genes are believed to account for as much as 70 percent of ADHD in children. Researchers trying to determine the cause of the other 30 percent of cases consider lead a prime suspect among possible environmental causes.
Lead, a neurotoxin, is present in trace amounts in such things as soil, drinking water, paints, children's costume jewellery and imported candies.
In one of two recent studies examining the possible link between lead and ADHD, researchers found that children with ADHD had slightly higher levels of lead in their blood than did children without ADHD. The second study showed an association between elevated levels of lead in children's blood and parent/teacher ratings of ADHD symptoms, including both hyperactivity and attention problems. In both studies, the link between lead and ADHD was independent of the children's IQ, family income, race or whether their mothers had smoked during pregnancy.
Lead disrupts brain activity in a way that leads to hyperactivity and attention problems. The findings strongly suggest that lead may be a cause of ADHD.
Genes are believed to account for as much as 70 percent of ADHD in children. Researchers trying to determine the cause of the other 30 percent of cases consider lead a prime suspect among possible environmental causes.
Lead, a neurotoxin, is present in trace amounts in such things as soil, drinking water, paints, children's costume jewellery and imported candies.
In one of two recent studies examining the possible link between lead and ADHD, researchers found that children with ADHD had slightly higher levels of lead in their blood than did children without ADHD. The second study showed an association between elevated levels of lead in children's blood and parent/teacher ratings of ADHD symptoms, including both hyperactivity and attention problems. In both studies, the link between lead and ADHD was independent of the children's IQ, family income, race or whether their mothers had smoked during pregnancy.
Lead disrupts brain activity in a way that leads to hyperactivity and attention problems. The findings strongly suggest that lead may be a cause of ADHD.
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