The Adverse Childhood Experience Study

The Adverse Childhood Experience (ACE) Study is a groundbreaking investigation that explores how difficult or traumatic experiences during childhood—such as abuse, neglect, or household dysfunction—can impact a person's physical and mental health later in life. Conducted in the 1990s, the study surveyed over 17,000 adults about their childhood experiences and found a strong correlation between these adverse experiences and a range of health issues, including chronic diseases, mental illness, and risky behaviors. The findings highlight the importance of addressing childhood trauma to improve long-term health outcomes and inform prevention strategies in public health.