Genetic predispositions and heart health: what the study found
A comprehensive analysis of genetic data suggests that people with a genetic predisposition to attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may face an increased risk of certain heart diseases. The study, which combines results from 14 separate investigations and was published in a respected journal, points to potential causal connections between these neurodevelopmental conditions and cardiovascular health.
Led by Piotr Ryszkiewicz of the Medical University of Białystok in Poland, the team used Mendelian randomization—a method that uses naturally inherited genetic variants as proxies to infer causality. This approach helps address the problem of confounding factors such as lifestyle, stress, or medication effects that can complicate traditional observational studies.
The researchers conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies employing Mendelian randomization to explore links between ADHD, ASD, and a range of cardiovascular outcomes. In total, 14 eligible studies were identified, and data were analyzed in two directions: whether a genetic predisposition to ADHD or ASD increased the risk of heart disease, and whether a genetic predisposition to heart disease influenced the risk of developing ADHD or autism.
ADHD-linked cardiovascular risks
The combined evidence showed that a genetic predisposition to ADHD was associated with a higher risk of several cardiovascular issues. Specifically, the data pointed to increased odds of coronary artery disease, heart failure, and various forms of stroke. The analysis highlighted a heightened likelihood of any stroke, as well as ischemic stroke and large-artery atherosclerotic stroke among those carrying ADHD-related genetic markers. These findings imply that the biological pathways connected to ADHD may contribute directly to the development of major cardiovascular problems, beyond the impact of lifestyle factors alone.
Autism-linked cardiovascular risks
By contrast, a genetic predisposition for autism spectrum disorder appeared linked to different cardiovascular risks. The analysis found an elevated risk of atrial fibrillation, a common form of irregular heart rhythm, and heart failure in individuals with ASD-linked genetic variants. The researchers did not observe a significant association between autism predisposition and stroke or coronary artery disease in this dataset, suggesting potential distinct pathways linking ASD genetics to specific heart conditions.
Bidirectional insights: heart conditions and neurodevelopmental risk
When the researchers flipped the analysis, they found that a genetic predisposition to atrial fibrillation was associated with a higher risk of ADHD. This bidirectional pattern hints at shared biological mechanisms that can influence both neurodevelopmental traits and cardiac rhythm. Notably, the study found no clear genetic link between high blood pressure and either ADHD or autism, indicating that blood pressure alone may not explain the observed connections in the genetic data.
Limitations and the need for further research
The authors acknowledged several important limitations. For some comparative groups, the number of available studies was small, so certain conclusions should be interpreted with caution until more data accumulate. The majority of genetic data came from individuals of European ancestry, raising questions about generalizability to other ethnic groups. Additionally, many analyzed studies did not report power calculations, leaving some uncertainty about whether they were large enough to detect real effects.
Implications for clinicians and future directions
The findings suggest that clinicians may want to integrate cardiovascular risk assessment into the routine care of patients with ADHD or autism spectrum disorder. Proactive monitoring, lifestyle interventions focused on diet and physical activity, and early management of cardiovascular risk factors could play a role in mitigating long-term heart health problems in these populations. The bidirectional results also call for more research into how heart conditions might influence the development or presentation of neurodevelopmental disorders, and vice versa.
Practical takeaways for care and prevention
For patients and families, awareness of potential heart health risks associated with ADHD and autism is important. Regular medical check-ups, attention to heart rhythm symptoms (such as palpitations or dizziness), and adherence to heart-healthy habits can be valuable components of a comprehensive care plan. As science advances, future studies—particularly those including diverse populations—will help clarify these genetic links and guide targeted prevention and treatment strategies.
About the study
The analysis synthesizes 14 Mendelian randomization studies exploring ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and cardiovascular outcomes. The work emphasizes genetic causality over simple correlation and underscores the need for ongoing research to translate these insights into clinical practice.
