Childhood adversity causes lasting health problems in adulthood

What the research found

A 2017 systematic review and meta-analysis pooled studies comparing people with four or more adverse childhood experiences, such as abuse or family violence, with people who had none. Outcomes included substance use, mental health and physical health. A 2026 review and meta-analysis of 62 studies from 15 countries looked at links that follow people over time. Pooled associations with adult mental illness were strongest for PTSD (OR 2.26).

Other research points the same way. A Tunisian study of 2,120 adults found that more than two social adversities in childhood were linked to a higher risk of hypertension. A review of four studies linked childhood adversity with poorer oral health in adults. All four were cross-sectional, so they can't show which came first. US health guidance says these experiences are linked to chronic health problems, mental illness and substance misuse.

The hard part is proving cause. Childhood adversity and mental health problems tend to cluster within families, so shared genes and family environment could explain some of the link. A 2024 Swedish study of 25,252 twins was designed to test this. Many other studies are observational, so they show a link rather than proof.

What it doesn’t mean

• This doesn't mean a hard childhood guarantees poor health. The research describes higher risk across groups of people, not what will happen to any one person.
• Most of the research comes from high-income countries, mainly the United States. It may not apply equally to every community.
• If your child has been through something frightening or stressful, or you're worried about their wellbeing, talk to your GP or child health nurse. Health guidance encourages recognising risk in children early and linking families with support.