You don’t go as far as to equate ADHD with genius, but there is clearly some overlap. What do you think is the relationship between ADHD and genius?
Michael Fitzgerald: The same genes of small effect that give you creativity also give you ADHD.

Does all creative enterprise involve a degree of ADHD or other Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Michael Fitzgerald: There is a great deal of overlap between ADHD and Autistic features in persons with great creativity.

There is a lot of interest in Aspergers in the UK at the moment because of the Gary McKinnon case (he risks extradition to the US because of computer hacking. Some have claimed that, given his condition, trial and jail in the US could put him at risk from suicide). Do you have any thoughts on this case?
Michael Fitzgerald: Gary should not be extradited. It could be detrimental to his health.

Is ADHD becoming more common as the tabloids would have us believe or is it just being recognised?
Michael Fitzgerald: It is being recognised more.

Could social, environmental or cultural factors be as much a cause of ADHD as neurochemical and hormonal ones?
Michael Fitzgerald: Hereitability is 60 % to 90%. Colourings and additives make it worse.

On a practical level, are people becoming more understanding of ADHD? Is treatment improving?
Michael Fitzgerald: Yes Stimulants (Equasym) are very effective.

Given the huge advances occurring in the field of genetics, what do you think we can expect to learn about ADHD in the future?
Michael Fitzgerald: We will get new treatments from the genetic studies.