ACE Study Links Childhood Trauma to Long-Term Health Problems

Perhaps the most alarming element of severe and/or chronic trauma in childhood is its impact on children’s futures, from troublesome health conditions to life-altering psychological effects. In 1998, key findings from the Adverse Childhood Experiences Study or ACE study revealed the troubling correlation between childhood trauma and the risk of serious long-term health problems. Worse, many of these conditions are ranked as leading causes of death in adulthood.

What Are Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)?

An “ACE” is defined as exposure to trauma in the first 18 years of life, such as child sexual abuse, divorce, parental incarceration or substance abuse, and more. An individual’s ACE score can range anywhere from 0-10. Individuals with an ACE score of 4 or higher are more likely to commit violence or become a victim of violence, in addition to being diagnosed with autoimmune diseases and mental illnesses. Moreover, they are:

• 2 times more likely to smoke

• 7 times likely to abuse alcohol

• At an increased risk (1200%) of attempting suicide

• At an increased risk (400%) of developing chronic bronchitis

Long-Term Health Risks of ACEs

According to research by the CDC, children with high “ACE” scores are at a higher risk of developing a variety of health issues, including:

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

• Drug and alcohol abuse

• Suicide attempts

• Smoking

• PTSD

• Depression

• Liver disease

• Illicit drug use

• Reduced health-related quality of life

• Ischemic heart disease (IHD)

• Increased risk of domestic violence

• Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)

• Unintended pregnancies

• Early initiation of smoking

• Early initiation of sexual activity

• Adolescent pregnancy

Be Part of the Solution: Ending the Child Abuse Epidemic

Generational trauma can create unimaginable challenges and invisible obstacles for many U.S. families. The first step to eliminating the harmful and lasting effects of childhood trauma is to be aware of the risks. Join the Unsilenced movement to help us end child abuse and give kids the better future they deserve.