A recent study published in BMC Public Health reveals the profound impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on chronic health outcomes, particularly among racial and ethnic minorities. The research, conducted by Christianah Jemiyo and colleagues, analyzed data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System across 33 states from 2019 to 2023. The study found that individuals with high ACE exposure are at increased risk for various health issues, including depression, smoking, coronary heart disease, and stroke.
The study highlights significant racial disparities in the effects of ACEs. While White respondents with high ACE scores showed a strong association with many health outcomes, minority groups often demonstrated even higher risk ratios. American Indian and Alaska Native (AIAN) respondents, in particular, exhibited the highest national-level risk for conditions such as heart attack, coronary heart disease, and stroke. These findings underscore the compounded health vulnerabilities faced by historically marginalized populations.
Geographic variations also play a crucial role, with states like Oregon and Nevada exhibiting the highest mean ACE scores. The study calls for state-level policies focused on trauma prevention, especially for vulnerable racial groups and high-risk geographic areas. Addressing ACEs holistically by considering state-related factors and predisposed health risks among racial and ethnic groups is essential for mitigating these disparities.
This research emphasizes the need for targeted interventions to address the unique associations between ACEs and health outcomes in diverse populations, aiming to reduce health disparities and improve overall well-being.
See: “Adverse childhood experiences and chronic health outcomes: evidence from 33 US states in the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, 2019-2023” (May 5, 2025)
