A history of ACEs.
Over the 2000s, research expanded to uncover the biological mechanisms of ACEs, including their effects on brain development, stress response, and epigenetics.
By the 2010s, ACEs science drove trauma-informed care in schools, healthcare, and social services, promoting early intervention and resilience-building. Governments and organizations integrated ACEs research into policies, including screening programs, community prevention, and professional training.
More recently, the field has shifted to address systemic factors like poverty, racism, generational, and historical trauma, recognizing their role in adverse experiences. Research now emphasizes not just reducing ACEs but fostering protective factors—strong relationships, supportive communities, and policy reforms—to build lifelong resilience.
90% of children with multiple ACEs have a higher risk of developing mental health disorders.
Women with four or more ACEs are at particularly high risk, of developing autoimmune diseases by 20-70% depending on the type and severity of adversity.
Individuals with high ACEs are 2.1 times more likely to experience cardiovascular disease compared to those with no ACE.
In a cohort of weight loss treatment-seeking adults, individuals with four or more ACEs were found to have eight times higher odds of experiencing weight cycling (repeated weight loss and regain).
ACEs screening helps identify at-risk children and individuals early, enabling targeted support and interventions. It shifts the focus from "What’s wrong with you?” to "What happened ? What were you exposed to?" fostering trauma-informed care.
If you know a family on Medicaid.
California and New York offer ACEs screening for Medicaid families, enabling early trauma detection and timely intervention. This proactive approach supports healthy development and prevents lasting health impacts.
Better Health Outcomes
ACEs screening helps individuals and parents achieve better health outcomes by identifying risks linked to chronic conditions like heart disease, depression, and anxiety. Understanding their experiences empowers them to take proactive steps toward healing, resilience, and overall well-being.
Whole Family Healing
Regardless of age, ACEs screening provides insight into the generational transmission of trauma and its impact on health and behavior. Rather than fostering shame, guilt, or disconnection, it promotes self-awareness and a path toward healing and wholeness
Beyond ACEs
Begin your journey now.
— Dr. Diana Ramos California Surgeon General
40%
Families engaged in whole- person or whole-child care improvement in health outcomes
85%
Caregivers report better stress management with family-focused health strategies.
