Adverse Childhood Experiences in Tennessee.

In 2012, the Tennessee Department of Health included the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) module in the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), a telephone survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, to analyze how ACEs affect the State’s general population. This report summarizes the findings from the analysis that indicate ACEs are widespread, common, and prevalent in Tennessee. Overall, 52% of the statewide population had at least one ACE, while 21% had three or more ACEs. Emotional abuse and parental separation or divorce rank as the most common adverse experiences. Participants with ACEs showed an increased risk for both short-term and long-term health and social problems. ACEs are found all across the State, with multiple counties in which 42% of the population has experienced two or more ACEs. Information is provided on types of ACEs, the impact of ACEs, the link between ACEs and brain development, and strategies for preventing and reducing ACEs in Tennessee. 16 figures.