children s health issues
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Causes of ADHD
ADHD has no known single specific cause, but genetic (inherited) factors are often present. Research indicates that ADHD likely involves abnormalities in neurotransmitters (substances that transmit nerve impulses within the brain). Some other risk factors include low birth weight (under 3 pounds [1500 grams]), head injury, brain infection, iron deficiency, Obstructive sleep apnea , and lead exposure, as well as exposure to alcohol, tobacco, or Some people have raised concerns about whether food additives and sugar may cause ADHD. Although some children seem to become overactive or impulsive after eating foods containing sugar, studies have confirmed that the brain differences that lead to ADHD are present at birth and that food and environmental factors do not cause the disorder. 