Lead and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) symptoms: A meta-analysis

Abstract

This meta-analysis examined the association between Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) symptoms and lead exposure in children and adolescents. Thirty-three studies published between 1972 and 2010 involving 10,232 children and adolescents were included. There was a small to medium association between inattention symptoms and lead exposure (r= .16, k= 27, p < .001). Overall, the relation between lead exposure and ADHD symptoms was similar in magnitude to the relation between lead exposure and decreased IQ and between lead exposure and conduct problems. © 2013 Elsevier Ltd.