Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs): Impact on Long- Term Pediatric Health and Development

Authors

Adverse Childhood Experiences, pediatric health, developmental outcomes, trauma, mental health, chronic disease, resilience

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) refer to potentially traumatic events that occur

before the age of 18, such as abuse, neglect, and household dysfunction. Research has

demonstrated that ACEs have profound effects on pediatric health, influencing both physical

and mental development. This paper explores the long-term consequences of ACEs on

pediatric health outcomes, including increased risk for chronic diseases, mental health

disorders, and developmental delays. Furthermore, it examines the mechanisms underlying

these effects, such as stress responses and epigenetic changes, as well as potential strategies

for intervention and prevention. Given the significant impact of ACEs, understanding their

long-term consequences is essential for improving health outcomes and promoting resilience

in affected children.