Abstract:
Objective: The aim of this study is to examine whether child abuse or neglect is more strongly associated with adult cardiovascular disease, and whether these associations differ by gender. Methods: A total of 116 participants (mean age 57.75 years) reported their experience of childhood maltreatment using the well-validated Childhood Experience of Care and Abuse Questionnaire. Cardiovascular disease was assessed using the Older Adults Resources Survey Multidimensional Functional Assessment Questionnaire. Results: Child abuse but not neglect was significantly associated with adult cardiovascular disease. The significant relationship between child abuse and cardiovascular disease was specific to women. Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that being abused as a child is significantly associated with cardiovascular disease in adulthood, particularly among women. (Author Abstract)