Childhood household dysfunction is associated with reduced left ventricular mass in young adulthood.

The effect of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on left ventricular mass (LVM) and left ventricular function remains largely unknown. This study investigated the influence of ACEs on LVM and left ventricular function and whether inflammation influences this relationship. 248 healthy young adults participated and a final sample of 217 (age = 22.6 ± 0.1 years; females = 114) had complete data. Echocardiographic assessment of LVM was indexed to height (LVM) and body surface area (LVM). Ejection fraction (EF), and fractional shortening were assessed. Interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein, tumour necrosis factor-α, and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 1 - 3 were measured and ACEs assessed based upon exposure and non-exposure to childhood household dysfunction and maltreatment, and quantity of adversity, (i.e., < 4 ACEs and ≥ 4 ACEs). Individuals who experienced household dysfunction demonstrated lower LVM, LVM, and LVM (p < 0.01) and greater IL-6 (p < 0.05) than those who did not experience household dysfunction. Reduced MMP3 was present in individuals who experienced maltreatment (p < 0.05) and ≥ 4 ACEs (p < 0.01) compared to no maltreatment and < 4 ACEs, respectively. After controlling for covariates (i.e., sex, recent life stress, height, body mass index, smoking, physical activity, and inflammation), a significant negative effect of household dysfunction on LVM, LVM, and LVM persisted. Likewise, a negative effect on EF independent of covariates was observed in individuals who experienced ≥ 4 ACEs. Alterations in LVM and EF may be perpetuated through a toxic home environment, promoting altered left ventricular development.