The relationship between childhood asthma and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A review of the literature

Objective(s): To clarify any etiological or symptomatic relationship between asthma and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Study Design: A systematic review of the literature was conducted through Medline. Results: We found little evidence of an over- representation of ADHD, academic, or behavioral problems in asthmatic children or of asthma among children with ADHD. We also failed to find convincing evidence that the standard treatment of asthma causes ADHD-like symptoms or academic decline in asthmatic children. Conclusion: These findings indicate that asthmatic children with school or behavioral problems may also suffer from ADHD and require treatment for both disorders.