Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder is associated with disordered eating in adolescents

AimAttention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and disordered eating (DE) are both highly prevalent among adolescents, but their relationship is understudied. This study examines their possible association in a nationally representative sample of adolescents.MethodsParticipants in the Israeli Youth Health and Nutrition Survey (2015-2016), a cross-sectional, school-based study, completed self-administered questionnaires, including the SCOFF questionnaire, and underwent anthropometric measurements. An affirmative reply to at least two SCOFF items was considered a DE case. Multivariable logistic regression evaluated the ADHD-DE association and the associations between ADHD and individual SCOFF items, controlling for age, sex, socioeconomic status, and body mass index.ResultsOf 4616 participants (12-18 years, 50.2% male), 654 reported an ADHD diagnosis. DE prevalence among ADHD adolescents was significantly higher than the non-ADHD group (50.2% vs. 43.9%, p = 0.003). Controlling for potential covariates, the association between ADHD and DE remained significant (OR = 1.409; 95% CI: 1.170-1.697), as did associations between ADHD and three SCOFF items. No difference in DE prevalence was found between stimulant-treated (n = 287) and untreated (n = 326) adolescents with ADHD.ConclusionAdolescents with ADHD are more likely to experience DE. As DE can herald an imminent eating disorder, early identification is crucial. Further studies are needed to determine the ADHD-DE relationship's causality.ImpactDisordered eating (DE) and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are common among adolescents, and significantly affect health and well-being.This study examined the association between ADHD and DE in adolescents using the SCOFF questionnaire. Following adjustment for sociodemographic variables and BMI z-score, ADHD was associated with a 41% increased odds for DE.This study established the association between ADHD and DE, using a well-known questionnaire, in a large, nationally representative sample of adolescents. Monitoring eating behaviors and attitudes among adolescents with ADHD should be a priority, to minimize the risk of developing an eating disorder and its harmful consequences.

Automated summary

This study found that adolescents with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are more likely to experience disordered eating (DE), emphasizing the importance of early identification to prevent the development of eating disorders. The study established a significant association between ADHD and DE, highlighting the need for monitoring eating behaviors among adolescents with ADHD.