The original ACE study examined the effects of ACEs on the body and found that ACEs were associated with a higher likelihood of many of the leading causes of death, including cancer, obesity, COPD, heart disease, and liver disease.
Since the study, many researchers have continued this research and found associations between ACEs and many other diseases and health behaviors. We will discuss these findings below.
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Before we begin any discussion about the effects of trauma, it is important to remind ourselves that healing and resilience are possible. Many factors can prevent these effects from occurring in the first place, and many factors can lead to their healing if they have occurred.
Our purpose here is to learn about potential ways trauma can adversely impact people, so that we can then use this knowledge to create trauma-informed, healing ministries.
If you begin to feel overwhelmed at any point when reading this article, please pause and seek guidance from a trained mental health professional, a trusted friend, or a mentor.
ACEs and the Risk of Disease
Many studies have found associations between ACEs and many physical health problems. People with more ACEs tend to rate their physical health more poorly. Researchers have found associations between ACEs and:
- Childhood asthma (1)
- Diabetes (2, 3)
- Heart attack (2, 3)
- Coronary heart disease (2, 3)
- Stroke (2)
- Disability(2)
- Cancer (3)
- Respiratory disease (3)
- Functional limitations (4)
- Hypertension (5)
- Digestive system diseases (5)
- Urinary system diseases (5)
In general, these effects tended to be strongest when people had four or more ACEs (2)
There are many explanations for these associations, but overall, the high stress of ACEs can lead to more inflammation, negatively impacting the brain and the body.
Additionally, ACEs can affect our DNA, particularly a part called telomeres, which are caps that protect our DNA. The stress caused by ACEs can erode telomeres, leading to more disease and faster aging (Childhood Disrupted by Donna Jackson Nakazawa).
A third explanation for these associations is that ACEs are associated with fewer healthy behaviors that prevent disease and more risky health behaviors.
ACEs and Health Behaviors
Several studies have found that experiencing more ACEs can be associated with engaging in fewer healthy and more unhealthy behaviors. These include:
- More screen time and sitting watching TV (6)
- Less physical activity (6)
- Fewer daily steps (7)
- Worse diet (8)
- Fewer hours of sleep (8)
Conclusion: The Effects of ACEs on the Body
Overall, there is still much to learn about the effects of ACEs on the body, but what we know so far suggests they can have negative effects.
There is hope for healing following exposure to ACEs. If you or someone you know may be suffering from these negative effects of ACEs, please visit the healing resources page to begin your healing journey and talk to your doctor about possible treatment.
To learn more about the effects of ACEs on the body, I recommend picking up a copy of Childhood Disrupted by Donna Jackson Nakazawa, which offers a comprehensive explanation of the wide-ranging impacts of ACEs.