HPIO brief explores the health impact of adverse childhood experiences

The Health Policy Institute of Ohio has released a new policy brief, "Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs): Health Impact of ACEs in Ohio."

The brief summarizes current research on how ACEs impact health and well-being and provides new data and analysis on the prevalence of ACEs in Ohio and the impact of ACEs on the health of Ohioans.

In addition, the brief expands on what we know from national research by exploring these questions:

• To what extent could Ohio’s health outcomes be improved by preventing ACEs?
• Which ACEs have the most significant impact on the health of Ohioans?

Preventing and mitigating the impact of ACEs are critical components of any plan to advance the health and well-being of Ohioans. Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and other policymakers have already taken significant strides to improve the health and well-being of Ohio’s children, including the creation of the Governor’s Office of Children’s Initiatives and improvements to the state’s child welfare and home visiting systems. In addition, the 2020-2022 State Health Improvement Plan (SHIP) includes reduction of ACEs as a priority.

Policymakers and other stakeholders can use the Ohio-specific data and analyses provided in this brief to inform future approaches to reduce ACEs exposure in Ohio.