# Positive childhood experiences in obesity and hypertension among young adults: Associations across adverse childhood experiences levels

## TL;DR

Positive childhood experiences are linked to lower obesity rates in young adults, even in high-stress environments.

## Contribution

This study is among the first to explore positive childhood experiences and obesity in low- and middle-income countries.

## Key findings

- Higher positive childhood experiences are associated with lower obesity and waist circumference rates.
- Specific positive experiences like self-liking and home routines reduce obesity risks.
- Positive experiences can reduce the negative impact of adverse childhood experiences on obesity.

## Abstract

Though the importance of childhood experiences in adult health is increasingly being recognized, the relationship between positive childhood experiences (PCEs) and cardiovascular risk factors remains understudied in low and middle-income countries, including India. This study explored the association of PCE exposure with obesity and hypertension among young adults in Delhi-NCR, India, independently and across different adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) levels.

A cross-sectional analysis was conducted among 1453 young adults (70.1 % female) recruited from two universities in Delhi-NCR. PCEs were measured using the Benevolent Childhood Experiences scale, and ACEs were assessed with the ACE-International Questionnaire. Obesity and hypertension were measured using standard protocols.

Participants with moderate (6–9) and high (10) PCE exposure showed significantly lower prevalence rates of overweight/obesity (40 % and 41 %, respectively, vs. 57.5 %) and high waist circumference (WC) compared to low (0–5) PCE exposure group (22.9 % and 25.6 %, respectively, vs. 37.7 %). Adjusted logistic regression revealed reduced odds of overweight/obesity and high WC with higher PCE exposure. Specific PCE items, such as self-liking and predictable home routines, were associated with lower obesity risks. No significant association was found between PCE exposure and hypertension. Additionally, a combined analysis of ACE and PCE levels revealed that higher PCEs can mitigate some adverse effects of ACEs on obesity.

Higher PCE exposure may be associated with lower obesity risks and improved anthropometric measures among young adults. Promoting PCEs may help reduce obesity, especially in high-adversity contexts. Interventions enhancing early self-esteem could be crucial in addressing obesity in this population.