Abstract
Objective
Despite growing evidence of links between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and
long-term health outcomes, there has been limited longitudinal investigation of such
links in youth. The purpose of these analyses was to describe the patterns of exposure
to ACEs over time and their links to youth health.
Methods
The current analyses used data from LONGSCAN, a prospective study of children at risk
for or exposed to child maltreatment, who were followed from age 4 to age 18. The
analyses focused on 802 youth with complete data. Cumulative exposure to ACEs between
4 and 16 was used to place participants in 3 trajectory-defined groups: chronic ACEs,
early ACEs only, and limited ACEs. Links to self-reported health at age 18 were examined
using linear mixed models after controlling for earlier health status and demographics.
Results
The chronic ACEs group had increased self-reported health concerns and use of medical
care at 18 but not poorer self-rated health status. The early ACEs only group did
not significantly differ from limited ACEs on outcomes.
Conclusions
In addition to other negative outcomes, chronic ACEs appear to affect physical health
in emerging adulthood. Interventions aimed at reducing exposure to ACEs and early
mitigation of their effects may have lasting and widespread health benefits.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: October 25, 2014
Accepted:
September 13,
2014
Received:
May 22,
2014
Footnotes
The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.
Identification
Copyright
© 2015 Academic Pediatric Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
