The aim of this study was to determine the association between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and subjective cognitive decline (SCD) among a representative sample of the adult US population.
Methods
Data were obtained from the 2019 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (N = 82,688, ≥45 years). Adverse childhood experiences included sexual, physical/psychological and environmental ACEs, and a score. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine the association between ACEs and SCD, and SCD-related outcomes.
Results
Sexual (adjusted OR (aOR: 2.83; 95% CI: 2.42–3.31)), physical/psychological (aOR: 2.05; 95% CI: 1.83–2.29), and environmental (aOR: 1.94; 95% CI: 1.74–2.16) ACEs were associated with SCD in the past year. There was also a dose-response relationship between ACE score and SCD.
Conclusion
ACEs were associated with SCD. Interventions to maximize cognitive health in aging and prevent future cognitive impairment should consider the potential role of ACEs among affected populations.
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