P03.16 Sexual abuse reported by young australian women

Abstract

Introduction Young women are under-represented in health research despite their transitioning a life stage critical for future health outcomes. Sexual abuse has become a critical issue, globally, leading to significant long term morbidity. We investigated the prevalence of unwanted sexual experiences (USEs) in young women, residing in Victoria, Australia. Methods The Young Female Health Initiative (YFHI) and Safe-D are comprehensive studies of physical, sexual, reproductive, and mental health of young females. Participants (aged 16–25 years) are recruited through Facebook. Consenting participants complete an extensive online health survey and attend a site visit. USEs are assessed using questionnaires and a protocol for protection of participants developed to ensure their safety. Results Data available for 398 participants (YFHI: N = 178; Safe-D: N = 220) shows 14% recalled a USE when they were 0.05). Conclusion To our knowledge this is the first Australian study in which the prevalence of USE in women as young as 16 years has been assessed. Prevalence was lesser than in other Australian community studies (25–30%). This may be related to age or reluctance to disclose. USEs should be researched further in this population, to develop intervention strategies. Disclosure of interest statement Nil.