The Role of Adverse Childhood Experiences in Cardiovascular Disease Risk: A Review with Emphasis on Plausible Mechanisms

Date

2015

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Current cardiology reports

Abstract

Childhood adversity, characterized by abuse, neglect, and household dysfunction, is a problem that exerts a significant impact on individuals, families, and society. Growing evidence suggests that adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are associated with health decline in adulthood, including cardiovascular disease (CVD). In the current review, we first provide an overview of the association between ACEs and CVD risk, with updates on the latest epidemiological evidence. Second, we briefly review plausible pathways by which ACEs could influence CVD risk, including traditional risk factors and novel mechanisms. Finally, we highlight the potential implications of ACEs in clinical and public health. Information gleaned from this review should help physicians and researchers in better understanding potential long-term consequences of ACEs and considering adapting current strategies in treatment or intervention for patients with ACEs. (Author Abstract)

Description

Keywords

child abuse, long term effects, heart disease, research, literature review

Citation

Su, S., Jimenez, M. P., Roberts, C. T., & Loucks, E. B. (2015). The role of adverse childhood experiences in cardiovascular disease risk: a review with emphasis on plausible mechanisms. Current cardiology reports, 17(10), 88.

DOI