Domestic Violence in Primary Care Patients
Author Information
Author(s): Selic Polona, Pesjak Katja, Kersnik Janko
Primary Institution: Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana
Hypothesis
What is the prevalence of domestic violence among primary care patients and what factors are associated with it?
Conclusion
The study found that 15.3% of primary care patients reported experiencing domestic violence, with women being the majority of victims.
Supporting Evidence
- 15.3% of patients reported experiencing domestic violence in the past five years.
- Women were more likely to report psychological and physical violence.
- Alcohol abuse and unemployment were significant risk factors for domestic violence exposure.
Takeaway
This study shows that many people who visit their doctors have experienced domestic violence, especially women.
Methodology
A multi-centre study involving 28 family practices in Slovenia where patients were screened for domestic violence exposure.
Potential Biases
Family doctors may not adequately recognize male victims of domestic violence.
Limitations
The study did not address coerced sexual intercourse and may not fully capture the complexity of domestic violence.
Participant Demographics
61% women and 39% men, aged 18 and above.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p < 0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI 1.54-14.45 for alcohol abuse; 95% CI 1.53-116.45 for unemployment
Statistical Significance
p < 0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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