Geneva, Switzerland – A recent study conducted at the University of Geneva reveals that adults with ADHD exhibit brain changes reminiscent of early-stage dementia, such as increased iron accumulation and higher levels of neurofilament light chain (NfL) in the blood. Researchers utilized advanced MRI scans and blood tests to identify elevated iron levels in crucial brain regions and signs of nerve damage in individuals with ADHD compared to healthy peers. These markers are known precursors to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s, suggesting a potential biological link between ADHD and a heightened risk of dementia later in life. The findings underscore the significance of early ADHD diagnosis and intervention to mitigate potential risks.
Iron accumulation is a key feature observed in adults with ADHD, particularly in brain regions associated with cognitive functioning. Additionally, elevated blood levels of neurofilament light chain (NfL), a marker of axonal damage, were found in individuals with ADHD. The combination of iron buildup and NfL levels indicates that ADHD may increase the susceptibility to age-related dementia. The study, published in Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences, provides valuable insight into the potential neurological mechanisms underlying the link between ADHD and dementia in later life.
Lead researcher Professor Paul G. Unschuld highlights the importance of these findings, noting that ADHD affects approximately 3.5% of adults globally and can have long-lasting effects on cognitive health. By examining brain iron content and NfL levels in adults with ADHD, the study sheds light on the neurological implications of the disorder and its potential association with dementia risk. This groundbreaking research opens the door for further investigations into preventative strategies for individuals with ADHD to reduce their risk of developing dementia as they age.
The study utilized quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) through MRI to analyze iron distribution in the brains of adults with ADHD and healthy controls. Results revealed significant differences in iron levels in various brain regions of individuals with ADHD, particularly in the precentral cortex. Moreover, a strong association was established between iron levels in the precentral cortex and NfL levels in the blood, indicating a potential link between brain iron accumulation and neuroaxonal damage in ADHD.
While the study provides valuable insights into the neurological mechanisms underlying the ADHD-dementia link, further longitudinal studies are needed to confirm these findings and explore potential treatment pathways. Early detection and management of ADHD are crucial not only for improving individuals’ quality of life but also for potentially reducing long-term cognitive health consequences. The research, funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation, paves the way for developing targeted interventions to mitigate dementia risks in individuals with ADHD.