Babies born prematurely may be at risk of developing ADHD

A recent study published in the journal Pediatrics reveals that babies who are born prematurely may have a higher risk of developing attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Researchers said that babies who are born as little as three weeks before the due date had a higher risk for developing ADHD. They added that mothers who are considering cesarean births a few weeks earlier than the pre-determined date may want deliver as close to the date as possible.

Children who were born between 23 and 28 weeks of pregnancy were the most at risk of later developing ADHD. Researchers found that the babies' chances of having the condition later in life is two and half times greater than those born at the full term of 39 weeks.

The study also found that seven out of every 1,000 children born moderately premature were prescribed ADHD medication.

Parents of young individuals who suffer from ADHD may wish to explore options offered at schools for troubled children. These learning institutions can help provide cognitive therapy designed to help them overcome their condition and succeed in the classroom and in life.