PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - We know that problems we face as children can have long term psychological effects on people as adults. Now results of a new study show that they also have substantial effects on physical health as well.

Researchers looked at medical information for over 18,000 adults in over 10 countries, comparing their childhood mental health status to their physical health in later life. They found that people with a history of 3 or more childhood adversities including physical or sexual abuse, neglect, parental death or divorce or family violence, were almost fifty percent more likely to have conditions such as heart disease, asthma, diabetes, arthritis and chronic headaches. There was a 43% greater risk of anxiety and 66% greater risk of depression. It shows how the experiences we have as children have long term effects in many ways.

Reported By Dr. Brian McDonough, KYW Newsradio Medical Editor