Children with Adverse Childhood Experiences More Likely to Miss School Due to Health Issues

Recent research conducted by UCLA Health highlights a significant link between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and increased school absenteeism among children. The study reveals that children who have encountered traumatic or stressful events in early life—such as exposure to violence, neglect, or racial discrimination—are notably more prone to missing school because of health-related problems.

Utilizing data from the 2021–2022 National Health Interview Survey, researchers analyzed responses from parents of over 10,000 children aged 6 to 17. The findings indicate that even experiencing a single ACE doubles the likelihood of chronic absenteeism due to illness, injury, or disability. The study identified a dose-response relationship where each additional ACE raises the odds of health-related school absence by 25%, underscoring the cumulative impact of early adversity.

The research further suggests that poor general health partially mediates this relationship, but it does not account for all the increased absenteeism. Individual ACE factors, particularly witnessing violence and experiencing racial discrimination, were strongly associated with higher rates of chronic absence.

These insights emphasize the importance of early identification and intervention by healthcare providers and educators. Incorporating ACE screening into pediatric and school health initiatives could help reduce absenteeism, ultimately improving health and educational outcomes. The study advocates for collaborative models involving schools and healthcare systems to support vulnerable children before adverse effects hinder their learning and well-being.

Lead author Dr. Rebecca Tsevat, a pediatrician at UCLA, states, "This study reinforces the need for integrated approaches to support children exposed to adversity, preventing prolonged absences and long-term health or academic challenges."

Published in "Academic Pediatrics," this research underscores the critical role of addressing childhood trauma early on to foster healthier, more resilient students. For more details, visit the source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-children-adverse-childhood-school-due.html