Exposure to Tobacco in Womb One of Possible Causes of ADHD

Research indicates that prenatal exposure to cigarette smoke is one of many possible causes of ADHD.

A recent article published in Biological Psychiatry indicates that babies exposed to smoke in the womb have a higher risk of developing ADHD.

For babies who are genetically predisposed to ADHD, smoking during pregnancy drastically increases the likelihood of the disorder. Interestingly, children who are at higher risk for developing ADHD also are at higher risk for substance-abuse disorders.

"When the child has either or both of two specific forms of dopamine pathway genes (DAT and DRD4), and was exposed to cigarette smoking in utero, the risk for having combined type ADHD (many inattention and hyperactive/impulsive symptoms) increased 3 to 9 fold," stated one of the study's authors, Dr. Rosalind.

What are some Caused of ADHD?

The causes of ADHD are still unknown in this day and age. With all of the medical breakthroughs and technology that we have, we are still unable to determine kids and adults have ADHD. That is kind of sad. Most people think it has some link with genetics and is passed on from generation to generation. This notion is a good one and hopefully they can find out for sure in the near future. Until then, there are medicines available for people to take to control this disorder. Ritalin is the most popular and is quite effective. Do not forget to take your pills.