Environmental pollution and incidence of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Abstract

Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) or Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a lifelong disorder of neurobiological origin that begins in childhood or preadolescence. The latest edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders published in 2022 establishes a classification system that intends to sort mental illnesses into diagnostic categories based on the description and analysis of symptoms, considering in relation to individuals the expressive and behavior‐related features as reflections of thoughts and emotions and as obvious consequences of the course of the illness. ADHD is found classified among Neurodevelopmental disorders and is manifested through neurobehavioral symptoms: changes in atten‐tion spans and consequent difficulty in concentration, hyperactivity or impulsivity, and excessive consequent impairment in social functioning, school performance, or constant and continuous work or daily activity. The origin of the disorder has many and varied causes, and the possibility of it becoming a genetic inheritance has been recognized at 70‐80%, as certain genes, including dopamine and serotonin, are associated with neurotransmitter func‐tions. Other factors such as biological, psychological or environmental conditions may also play a role and act individually or synergistically in the course of ADHD. Important to consider exposure to air pollutants as a possible reason for the occurrence of Neurodevelopmental Disorders, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and ADHD.