Adverse Childhood Experiences and the Health of Society speaker on April 6

Dr. Robert Anda

Service providers and community members dedicated to serving, educating and advocating for families across Shoreline/Northshore and East King County communities gathered on Friday, April 6 at Chateau Bothell Landing retirement and assisted living community in downtown Bothell to hear Doctor Robert Anda, Co-Principal Investigator of Adverse Childhood Experiences and the Health of Society.

Adverse Childhood Experiences such as child abuse and neglect, have a strong influence on several adolescent issues, such as; smoking, alcohol abuse, drug abuse, etc. A summary of findings reflect that ACES are very common and are strong predictors of health risks and disease from adolescence to adulthood. 

However, Dr. Anda emphasized that those with ACEs are resilient and adaptable, able to change behaviors and overcome these toxic experiences that have affected them over many years. Attendees at the conference shared their strategies and experiences in using this ACE research while serving vulnerable people; helping them recognize their capability to adjust and pursue healthy behaviors that improve their quality of life. 

The presentation was co-hosted by the Shoreline/Northshore and Eastside Community Networks. 

Findings from the ACE Study have been presented at Congressional Briefings and numerous conferences around the world. The ACE Study is being replicated in numerous countries by the World Health Organization (WHO) and is now being used to assess the childhood origins of health and social problems in more than 18 U.S. states with Washington leading the way through the statewide Community Network that builds capacity in local communities translating Science to action using the public health framework. 

For more information about the Community Network System and to access the online workshop please visit this website.