ADHD Impulsivity and Sexual Health: An Exploratory Review and Logical Analysis of STI and HIV Risk

Although attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has been linked to elevated sexually transmitted infections (STIs), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) risk remains understudied within the literature. PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases were searched using combined keyword sets on ADHD and HIV based on descriptions from national health agencies. Due to current gaps in the research literature, deductive reasoning patterns were used to identify neuropsychological and social risk factor pathways, which were then represented visually through the ADHD Impulsivity Model. Nearly all pre-selected HIV risk factors were found in the literature, with hyperactive-impulsive subtypes demonstrating higher rates of victimization, substance use, sexual risk-taking, STIs, and HIV, suggesting a probable link between hyperactive-impulsive ADHD subtypes and HIV risk. This review suggests that health risks might also be greater among untreated populations. As an underrepresented public health concern, ADHD-related impulsivity may reduce long-term health outcomes, increase STI and HIV transmission rates, and raise medical expenditures.