Universal Screening for Toxic Stress During Well-Child Visits: The Addressing Social Key (ASK) Questions for Health Study

Abstract

Purpose: Toxic stress, a consequence of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and unmet social needs (USN), is a well-established risk factor for poor health outcomes yet under-identified by pediatricians. Research has shown that screening for ACEs and USN separately can improve identification and management of social stressors and is acceptable to families. Our objectives were: (1) To determine the prevalence of toxic stress (ACEs and USN) with universal screening using the Addressing Social Key (ASK) Questions for Health Questionnaire. (2) To determine referral rates to community …