Domestic violence can have both immediate and long-term effects on survivors’ health. Abused women are likelier to experience chronic illness—including multiple chronic conditions—even years after abuse has occurred. Nearly 1 in 5 adult women and about 1 in 7 adult men report having experienced severe physical violence from an intimate partner in their lifetimes. About 1 in 6 homicide victims are killed by an intimate partner. The CDC estimates that the lifetime medical cost of domestic violence to the U.S. population is $2.1 trillion. Health effects of domestic violence include:
Physical
- Bruises, abrasions, lacerations, punctures, burns, bites
- Broken bones, teeth or ear drums
- Eye injuries, even leading to blindness
- Organ damage
- Digestive conditions
- Asthma
- Migraines and headaches
- Chronic pain syndromes
- Bladder and kidney infections
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Traumatic Brain Injury from strangulation or head injuries
- Hair loss
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Fistula (tear between the vagina and bladder, rectum or both)
- Sexually transmitted infections, HIV and other reproductive health issues
- Death
Mental
- Depression
- Sleeping and eating disorders
- Stress and anxiety disorders
- PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)
- Self-harm and suicide attempts
Behavioral
- Drug or alcohol abuse
- Risky sexual behavior
Doctors and other trusted health care professionals play a critical role in helping survivors recognize abuse and receive appropriate treatment. To do this, they should routinely screen patients for domestic violence, offer non-judgmental support and affirmation, and help survivors access domestic violence services.New Beginnings can provide training on this topic for medical students and providers.
