Examining the relationship among adults with ADHD and SUD: a retrospective analysis of demographic factors using the Health Facts Database

Background: Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is traditionally considered as a childhood disorder; however, a significant proportion of adults experience persistent symptoms, often undiagnosed or untreated. There continues to be significant gaps in understanding the relationship between ADHD and substance use disorder (SUD), particularly in adult populations. Given similar symptom overlap between ADHD and SUD, diagnosis and treatment can be challenging. Objective: This study aims to examine the relationship between ADHD and SUD in adults, focusing on demographic factors that contribute to SUD risk. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted using secondary data from the Cerner Health Facts® database. This study consisted of adults ages 18-65 with an ADHD diagnosis who had visited a facility that provided data to Health Facts®. Patients were then categorized based upon their SUD status (active use and in remission, or no history of use). ADHD and SUD diagnoses were obtained using ICD-9 and ICD-10 codes. Frequencies were obtained for age, race/ethnicity, gender, marital status, and geographic locations. Logistic regression analyses were employed to evaluate the relationships between demographic variables and overall SUD and substance specific use and SUD outcomes. Results: Overall females had 20% lower odds of developing a SUD compared to males. African Americans had 35% lower odds compared to Caucasian patients, while Native Americans had increased odds in the unadjusted model only. Married individuals and older adults had a significantly lower odds of SUD development. Regional variation was observed with lower odds in the Southern region, but higher and nonsignificant odds in the West. Substant-specific models for cannabis, stimulants, and nicotine were also analyzed due to their higher prevalence. Conclusion: This study provides critical insights to the demographic factors associated with SUD risk in adults with ADHD. The findings suggest a need for targeted interventions and improved diagnostic measures for both ADHD and SUD. Future research should explore causal relationships and the various treatments to improve outcomes for this population.

Name thesis:degree_name

M.S. (Master of Science)

Level thesis:degree_level

Masters

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Bioinformatics (UMKC)

Grantor

University of Missouri--Kansas City

Year dc:date.issued

2025

Author dc:creator

• Todd, Reagan Elizabeth

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Simon, Stephen D.

Handle dc:identifier.uri

https://hdl.handle.net/10355/108785

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:mospace.umsystem.edu:10355/108785