Assessing the Effectiveness of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) Prevention Programmes in Low-and Middle-Income Countries: An Evaluation Review

Abstract

Childhood adversity manifests in many forms, including inadequate nutrition, child neglect, domestic violence, and lack of parenting awareness. To prevent Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), mental health practitioners have performed some programmes across many countries. However, an evaluation of how the programme is considered effective and feasible for the long term needs to be conducted. Objective: The purpose of the review is to examine the feasibility and effectiveness of all the programmes on ACEs prevention and interventions in LMICs and to think about how, for whom, and under what circumstances the approaches are effective. Setting: Three programmes from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs): Thinking Healthy Programme (THP) performed in Peru, Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Nigeria, Rwanda, Bolivia, FUSAM in Nepal, and GROSAME from Haiti were carefully assessed. Methods: A critical literature review focused on identified programme characteristics, success and challenges, and critics of the programme.  Results: ACEs prevention programs in LMICs settings need a comprehensive view of interventions, high response rates, quantification of eligible patients, and culturally acceptable intervention techniques. LMICs require a comprehensive policy framework to reduce ACEs to make preventative initiatives successful and sustainable. Conclusions: Findings suggest that collaboration and engaging with an extensive range of stakeholders on multiple fronts can reduce the impact of early adversity and trauma.