Cardiovascular risk in adults with Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome (DSPS) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is associated with a wide variety of sleep problems. The most common sleep disturbance in adults with ADHD is Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome (DSPS), which leads to sleep insufficiency and social jetlag. ADHD, short sleep, and social jetlag have independently been associated with poorer cardiovascular health. Adults with both DSPS and ADHD may be particularly at risk of developing cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), which are the leading cause of death worldwide. In this study, 24-hour resting-state heart rate variability (HRV) was measured as a biomarker for cardiovascular health in 49 adults (18-55y) with DSPS and ADHD. The prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors obesity, smoking, and hypertension was determined. The majority of participants scored within average ranges for all HRV measures. The prevalence of obesity was normal compared to the general population. Smoking and hypertension were more prevalent, but not related to HRV. In conclusion, we found no evidence for a high risk of CVDs in this group. It however remains important to study cardiovascular risk in adults with DSPS and ADHD using different methodologies. Trial Registration FASE, https://www.trialregister.nl/, #NTR3831