Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are linked to numerous detrimental effects on physical, mental, and behavioral well-being. Nevertheless, no definitive threshold for ACE scores in relation to health consequences has been firmly established. This lack of clarity has resulted in the application of varying thresholds to classify elevated scores. The objective of this investigation is to determine a threshold at which ACEs demonstrate a notable connection to adverse long-term health conditions. To achieve this goal, a secondary examination was performed using information from a cross-sectional survey. Data were gathered employing the Adverse Childhood Experiences-International Questionnaire (ACE-IQ). Analyses involving descriptive statistics, nonparametric regression, and logistic regression were carried out on a cohort of 10,047 adults. Information encompassing demographics and self-reported health indicators was incorporated. Findings indicated that a threshold of four or more ACEs was markedly linked to higher incidences of chronic illnesses. Individuals reporting at least one chronic condition were nearly three times more likely (OR = 2.8) to fall into the elevated ACE category. Establishing a uniform threshold for ACE scores will support forthcoming studies exploring the influence of substantial ACEs across diverse cultures in assessing how early-life experiences affect health.
