Environmental Causes of ADHD

Find out how environmental factors affect the risk of ADHD.

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Alexandra Cristina Cowell
Medically reviewed by Alexandra Cristina Cowell Clinical Support

Reading time: 1 min

Uploaded on: January 28, 2026

ADHD is thought to be primarily caused by genetics, with heritability estimated between 66% - 86%.[1] But environmental factors, such as maternal stress, diet, and toxins, can play a role too.

Summary:

  • ADHD is thought to be mostly genetic, but environmental factors can increase your risk or worsen symptoms.
  • Stress, poor diet, smoking or drinking during pregnancy can raise a child's ADHD risk.
  • Premature birth and low birth weight are linked to an increased risk of ADHD.
  • BPA found in plastics has been tied to hyperactivity and attention problems.
  • Diets high in sugar and junk food may make ADHD symptoms worse over time.

Read next:

Pre-birth factors

Post-birth factors

References:

  1. Taylor, M. J., et al. (2023). A twin study of genetic and environmental contributions to attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder over time. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 64(11), 1608-1616.
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Reading time: 1 min

Uploaded on: January 28, 2026

Dr Daniel
Medically reviewed by Alexandra Cristina Cowell Clinical Support Registered with GMC (00001) January 28, 2026 Meet Alexandra Cristina Cowell
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Written by Focused Content Team
Last updated on May 21, 2026
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