Abstract

Evidence suggests that childhood maltreatment (CM) is cross-sectionally and prospectively associated with cardiovascular disease. However, its association with proxy markers of atherosclerosis has hardly been investigated. Thus, in this general population study, we examined the association of CM with carotid plaque and intima-media thickness. Adults from the general population free of any cardiovascular disease (n = 1909; mean [SD] age = 50.4 (13.6) years, 53.9% women) completed the self-report Childhood Trauma Questionnaire for the assessment of emotional, physical, and sexual abuse as well as emotional and physical neglect; in addition, an ultrasound of the carotid arteries was performed in each participant. At least one type of CM was reported by 25% of the participants. Carotid plaque was significantly more frequent in those with CM compared with those without (odds ratio = 1.47, 95% confidence interval = 1.19-1.81). Accounting for age and sex rendered it nonsignificant (odds ratio = 1.07, 95% confidence interval = 0.81-1.42). Emotional abuse and physical neglect were significantly associated with both carotid intima-media thickness and plaque occurrence, but these associations were fully explained by risk factors. Neither sexual nor physical abuse was related to proxy markers of atherosclerosis. Our findings suggest that the relationship between CM types and subclinical atherosclerosis as well as its clinical end points is complex and remains inconclusive, suggesting the need for further research.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.