Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) contribute to childhood obesity, according to a Growing Up in New Zealand study. A total of 4895 children with obesity data at the age of 8 years were analysed, of whom 87.1% had experienced ≥1 ACE and 16% had experienced ≥4 ACEs. Six individual ACEs were significantly associated with childhood obesity, and the risk increased proportionately with increasing number of ACEs (adjusted odds ratios 1.78 for 1 ACE; 2.84 for ≥4 ACEs). Children with ≥2 ACEs were more likely to adopt obesogenic behaviours, ranging from physical inactivity (adjusted odds ratio 1.29) to no regular breakfast consumption (adjusted odds ratio 3.16).
While the article doesn’t directly test interventions, its findings highlight that effective strategies to reduce multiple ACEs – especially for Indigenous and other structurally marginalised children – must be holistic, culturally grounded, and embedded within broader obesity-prevention and trauma-informed programming. We need BOTH universal AND Indigenous led, culturally safe interventions.
Independent commentary by Dr. Matire Hardwood
Dr Matire Harwood (Ngapuhi) has worked in Hauora Māori, primary health and rehabilitation settings as clinician and researcher since graduating from Auckland Medical School in 1994. She also holds positions on a number of boards, committees and advisory groups including the Health Research Council. Matire lives in Auckland with her whānau including partner Haunui and two young children Te Rangiura and Waimarie.
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