The exact cause of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or what is commonly known as ADHD is still unknown. The possible causes remain obscure. However certain studies reveal a close connection with a number of factors that ADHD patients commonly share. Since these factors are closely related to ADHD, it is possible that they contribute in the development this condition in children.
One of the most likely ADHD causes is heredity. It is a scientific fact that if a trait or condition has a genetic basis it is most likely to occur within the biological family. A controlled study show that if there is an ADHD child in the family, the risk of having other ADHD family members increases five times. Thus, those who are suffering from ADHD are mostly likely to have an ADHD child compared to those who do not have the same condition.
Another closely linked factor to ADHD causes is the child's exposure to toxic substances during pregnancy. Toxic substances include tobacco products and alcohol. This means that mothers who smoke and drink alcohol during pregnancy substantially increases the risk of developing ADHD in their unborn child.
Exposure to lead is also identified as closely related to ADHD. This is especially so if lead exposure occurs within the first three years in the child's life.
It is not surprising that the above substances are closely related to the development of ADHD in children. In fact, even in the absence of these scientific facts, it is a no-brainer that smoking and alcohol use is detrimental to a child's development during the pregnancy stage. It has been proven that these substances negatively impact on and impedes developing brain tissues essential to the executive functions of the brain.
Although no studies have shown and proved that bad diet, poor parenting and excessive television time are likely causes of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. It does not erase the fact that these factors can have damaging effect to the child's health and development. Thus, eliminating these factors can greatly improve your child's chances of recovery from ADHD.
Although there are no exact scientific basis and undeniable proofs that the above discussed factors are likely ADHD causes, however their close association to this behavioral disorder, as shown by numerous studies, should be a point of concern for parents. It is important that these factors be given great consideration. The absence of these factors from your child's life significantly lowers the risk of ADHD. Thus, it is indeed prudent to steer away from them.