ADHD could be linked to tobacco use among youths

Investigators have assessed whether attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptom severity could be predictive of tobacco use among youths.

In a study published in JAMA Network Open, the investigators examined tobacco use habits among 13,572 individuals aged 12 to 17 years who participated in the PATH Study.

After a follow-up of nine years, the investigators found that the participants who had greater ADHD symptom severity were more likely to initiate use of nicotine and tobacco products, e-cigarettes, or both. Those who received treatment but still experienced persistent symptoms were at elevated risk of using tobacco products.

The findings indicated that ADHD symptoms could serve as predictors of the risk of tobacco use and highlighted the significance of early diagnosis.

Read more: JAMA Network Open

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