Can being born early increase the risk of ADHD?

PostedAugust 19, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 4, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Avery Lombardi, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Yes, being born early can increase the risk of ADHD. Studies show that children delivered prematurely, especially before 32 weeks of gestation, are more likely to develop attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder compared to those born at full term.

This early birth impact is believed to stem from disrupted brain development. The last few months of pregnancy are vital for forming brain areas that control attention and behaviour. When birth happens too soon, those areas may not have had time to fully develop. As a result, children may experience long-term effects on focus, impulse control, and emotional regulation.

In addition, environmental stressors like extended stays in hospital, sensory overload in neonatal units, or lack of early support can add to the ADHD risk. Genetics may set the stage, but early birth can influence how those traits are expressed. Proper support during neonatal development may help reduce some of these long-term risks.

Signs to Watch For

Here are some common signs of ADHD that may appear in children born prematurely. Understanding these can help parents and caregivers seek the right support early.

Difficulty focusing

Children may struggle to follow instructions or stay engaged in tasks, especially in structured environments like school.

Impulsivity

Acting without thinking, interrupting conversations, or difficulty waiting their turn are behaviours often linked to underdeveloped impulse control.

Hyperactivity

Excessive movement, restlessness, and difficulty sitting still can suggest ADHD-related challenges in self-regulation.

Recognizing these early signs in children born prematurely can lead to timely support and better long-term outcomes. Early intervention makes a meaningful difference in their development and daily functioning.

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and professional guidance tailored to your child’s needs.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to premature birth or low weight ADHD.

Avery Lombardi, MSc

Author

Avery Lombardi is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. She has professional experience in psychological assessment, evidence-based therapy, and research, working with both child and adult populations. Avery has provided clinical services in hospital, educational, and community settings, delivering interventions such as CBT, DBT, and tailored treatment plans for conditions including anxiety, depression, and developmental disorders. She has also contributed to research on self-stigma, self-esteem, and medication adherence in psychotic patients, and has created educational content on ADHD, treatment options, and daily coping strategies.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.