Childhood trauma is linked to mental health problems and chronic pain in later life and is a leading driver of health inequalities, according to research from University of Aberdeen.

Scientists analysed data from more than 16,000 people born in the UK in 1958 via the National Child Development Study, which followed around 17,000 people born during one week in 1958 in England, Scotland, and Wales and interviewed them about their health when they reached 50.

The University of Aberdeen researchers looked at 14 types of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) – including abuse, neglect, family conflict, bullying, financial hardship and family illness – and found that as well as affecting childhood wellbeing, ACEs are associated with long-term adverse health and social outcomes.

Adults who experienced childhood adversity were significantly more likely to suffer from depression, anxiety and chronic pain at 50 years old. Also, the more trauma experienced, the greater the impact on health at 50. Those who experienced four or more types of childhood adversity had the highest risk of developing health problems as adults.

Severe pain and poor mental health were the largest associations, while in women, gastrointestinal problems, asthma and bronchitis were also associated with childhood trauma.

Researchers are calling for childhood adversity to be treated as a public health priority.

Professor Gary Macfarlane, chair in epidemiology at the University of Aberdeen who led the study, says: “Our study provides evidence of the multi-faceted potential health consequences of ACEs showing greatest excess risks in relation to mental ill-health and severe pain.

“Our findings highlight the importance of considering prevention strategies to mitigate the potential long-term health consequences of ACEs. Screening for ACEs in primary care settings and targeted interventions for at-risk individuals may help reduce the burden of chronic pain, mental ill-health, and other poor health outcomes.

“The findings also highlight the importance of preventing childhood trauma and providing early support to at-risk families.”

Deborah Alsina MBE, chief executive of Versus Arthritis, which part-funded the research, says: “Tackling childhood adversity is vital if our governments are serious about reducing the burden of chronic pain for the next generation.

“We must confront inequalities in musculoskeletal health. That requires bold investment in local, personalised, evidence-based care and addressing the wider social and economic factors that shape health.”

With ill health causing an economic drag in the UK, in terms of workplace absenteeism and pressure on NHS services and with musculoskeletal problems and mental illness being the main causes of sick leave, this research offers valuable insights into how to tackle the root of the problem.

Longstanding trauma can also be a blocker to making lifestyle changes, further driving the health inequality issue. As previously discussed in HCM trauma can get stored in the body, dysregulating the nervous system and making it difficult for people to make lifestyle changes, such as developing a regular exercise habit.

The research, Adverse Childhood Experiences and Health at Age 50 Years in the National Child Development Study, has been published in JAMA Network Open.

It was conducted as part of the CAPE Consortium (Consortium Against Pain InEquality) within the APDP initiative (Advanced Pain Discovery Platform) which is funded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), Versus Arthritis, Medical Research Foundation, and Eli Lilly and Company.