To Örebro University

Background: Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are associated but it is unclear if this is a causal relationship or confounding. We used genetic analyses and sibling comparisons to clarify the direction this relationship.

Methods: Linkage Disequilibrium Score Regression and two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) were used to test for genetic correlation (r_g) and bidirectional causal effects using European ancestry genome-wide association studies of ADHD (20,183 cases and 35,191 controls) and six PTSD definitions (up to 320,369 individuals). Several additional variables were included in the analysis to verify the independence of the ADHD-PTSD relationship. In a population-based sibling comparison (N=2,082,118 individuals), Cox regression models were fitted to account for time at risk, a range of sociodemographic factors, and unmeasured familial confounders (via sibling comparisons).

Results: ADHD and PTSD had consistent r_g (r_g range, 0.43-0.52; P < .001). ADHD genetic liability was causally linked with increased risk for PTSD (Beta=0.367, 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.186-0.552, P=7.68x10^-5). This result was not affected by heterogeneity, horizontal pleiotropy (MR Egger intercept=4.34x10^-4, P=0.961), or other phenotypes, and was consistent across PTSD datasets. However, we found no consistent associations between PTSD genetic liability and ADHD risk. Individuals diagnosed with ADHD were at a higher risk for developing PTSD than their undiagnosed sibling (hazard ratio=2.37, 95% CI 1.98-3.53).

Conclusions: Our findings add novel evidence supporting the need for early and effective treatment of ADHD as patients with this diagnosis are at significantly higher risk to develop PTSD later in life.