Which of the following statements about ACE exposure is true?

• A. ACE can impact the hormonal system, growth, immune system, and brain development
• B. ACE affects only growth
• C. ACE has no impact on the immune system
• D. ACE affects only brain development

Answer: (A)

Exposure to adverse childhood experiences triggers prolonged stress that can influence multiple body systems, not just one. The hormonal system, growth processes, immune function, and brain development can all be affected. When stress is chronic, the body’s stress response stays activated, altering hormones like cortisol, which can disrupt growth, modulate immune responses, and shape brain development and the circuits that regulate emotions and stress. That’s why this statement is the most accurate.

In contrast, the idea that ACE affects only growth or only brain development, or has no impact on the immune system, misses the broad way stress and adversity can alter health and development across several domains.