Inequality and intergenerational transmission of complex adversity

Abstract

Young people exposed to adversity often have poor health outcomes in adulthood. A large body of evidence links adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) with impaired health and social functioning in later life in a dose-response fashion, which is suggestive of a causal relationship.1, 2 Minimisation of exposure to early adversity and building of resilience in the face of such adversity are important to reduction of the burden of disease, improvement of public health, and reduction of health inequalities.