Chronic disease and health behaviours linked to experiences of non-consensual sex among women and men

Abstract

Objectives Few studies have examined the association between non-consensual sex and health indicators for both women and men. The current study examined this relationship as part of a large public health survey that collected information on a range of health behaviours and health risks. Methods The Behavioural Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) is an annual random-digit-dialled telephone survey providing surveillance of health behaviours and health risks among US adults. In 2005, an optional module on sexual violence was available for use at the discretion of each US state/territory. Over 115,000 respondents in 25 states/territories were administered the sexual violence module within the BRFSS. Logistic regression analyses were conducted from January to December 2008. Results Among both women and men, previous non-consensual sex was associated with health conditions such as high cholesterol, stroke and heart disease, and risk behaviours such as human immunodeficiency virus risk factors, smoking and excessive drinking. Sexually victimized women were more likely to report having had a heart attack or heart disease than non-victims. Conclusions The experience of non-consensual sex is associated with a number of chronic disease outcomes and risk factors. The development and implementation of effective sexual violence prevention strategies may reduce the risk of chronic conditions among persons who have experienced sexual victimisation.