Victims of childhood sexual abuse are more likely to suffer multiple difficulties as adults

Otago University research has found adverse outcomes can range from smoking and alcohol consumption, to antisocial behaviour, mental health and personal relationships.

The study used Dunedin Study participants, who are followed from birth to age 45.

Lead author, Dr Hayley Guiney says it's important to understand the long term impacts of abuse.

She says survivors are nearly four times more likely than their peers to have attempted suicide in their lifetime.