Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder, known as ADHD, is a common disorder, affecting many people. According to The National Institute of Health, approximately 3 to 5% of children suffer from some type of ADHD. Though extensive research as been done on the topic, there is not one clear cause of ADHD, however many factors may contribute to the development of this disorder. These factors include the hereditary, exposure to environmental toxins and brain injury.
Hereditary Factors
Heredity remains the primary contributing factor to the development of ADHD. A strong genetic link exists between parents having ADHD and their children having ADHD. Additionally, it proves common for biological siblings to have the disorder as well. According to the Mayo Clinic, approximately 25% of children with ADHD also have a relative with the disorder.
Environmental Toxins
Exposure to toxins may present a link with ADHD. Lead paint and lead pipes are no longer used in construction, however many older buildings still have these materials in them. This can increase the risk of ADHD in children. Other toxins found to result in a higher risk include exposure to drugs, cigarettes and alcohol during gestation. In particular, tobacco proves very dangerous for a fetus, and can result in low birth weight, an additional risk factor for ADHD.
Brain Injury
Historically, brain injury was believed to cause of ADHD. Though no longer seen as the main cause, in some instances ADHD symptoms have resulted after a traumatic brain event occurs, such as a stroke, brain tumor or injury to the head. All of these events can create a change to the brain, which often remains unseen or known about until ADHD symptoms begin to appear later.
