The November 2019 edition of CDC’s Vital Signs report is about preventing adverse childhood experiences, or ACEs. This term includes 1) preventing potentially traumatic events that can occur in childhood, such as personally experiencing violence or abuse or witnessing violence in the home; and 2) home or school problems that can undermine a child’s sense of safety, stability, or bonding. These may include growing up in a  household with substance misuse or mental health problems, or parental separation or incarceration of a household member.

Key facts of the report include:

  • Exposure to ACEs, especially of multiple types, can put children at increased risk of chronic health problems and other health risks throughout their lifetime.
  • At least five of the top 10 leading causes of death are associated with ACEs.
  • One in six (16%) have experienced four or more types of ACEs in childhood.
  • Females and several racial/ethnic minority groups are at greater risk for experiencing four or more types of ACEs.

Click here to access the CDC Vital Signs report on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)

Download the full report on Preventing Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs): Leveraging the Best Available Evidence

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