Adverse childhood experiences, such as violence victimization, substance misuse in the household, or witnessing intimate partner violence, have been linked to leading causes of adult morbidity and mortality. Vital Signs: Estimated Proportion of Adult Health Problems Attributable to Adverse Childhood Experiences and Implications for Prevention: 25 States, 2015–2017 presents the CDC’s first ever comprehensive estimates of the potential to improve Americans’ health by preventing Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). ACEs and their harms are preventable using the best available evidence to create safe, stable, nurturing relationships and environments for all children and families.
These findings examine the associations between ACEs and 14 negative outcomes. CDC analyzed data from 25 states to estimate long-term health and social outcomes in adults that contribute to leading causes of illness and death and reduced access to life opportunities. The report presents information about how preventing ACEs has the potential to reduce leading causes of death such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes, and have a positive impact on mental health and life opportunities like education and employment.
