Introduction Intimate Partner Violence Research Articles

A qualitative study of dentists' and dental students' preparedness to support patients with lived experience of intimate partner violence and abuse.

Introduction Intimate partner violence and abuse (IPVA) is a public health crisis with long-term implications for an individual's mental and physical health. IPVA can result in head and neck trauma, including oral injuries, placing dentists in a unique position to be able to identify at-risk patients. It is therefore important to understand any barriers dentists may experience when supporting IPVA patients.Aims The aim of this study was to explore whether dentists and dental students are prepared to support patients with lived experience of IPVA.Method This study adopted a qualitative cross-sectional research design using focus groups and interviews. Data were collected using the principles of grounded theory and analysed using thematic analysis.Results Data were collected from 14 dentists and 22 dental students showing that they did not feel confident or prepared in identifying and responding to patients they suspected were experiencing IPVA. Barriers included a lack of practical knowledge and fear of 'getting it wrong', resulting in professional paralysis.Conclusion Improving current safeguarding educational frameworks at both the undergraduate and postgraduate stage could be key to improving the confidence and practical knowledge of dental practitioners.

Impact of partner alcohol use on intimate partner violence among reproductive-age women in East Africa Demographic and Health Survey: propensity score matching

IntroductionIntimate Partner Violence (IPV) is the most prevalent form of violence against women globally and is more prevalent than rape or other violent attacks by strangers. Different observational studies have established a strong positive association between alcohol use and intimate partner violence. Even though there are a lot of studies that show the association between partner alcohol use and intimate partner violence limited studies were conducted that show the direct causative relations of partner alcohol use and IPV among reproductive-age women in East Africa. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the effect of partner alcohol use on intimate partner violence in East Africa’s recent Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) data with Propensity Score Matching (PSM).MethodCommunity-based cross-sectional study design with a propensity score matching was used from the East African countries’ DHS data. A total of the weighted sample size of 72,554 reproductive-age women was used for this study. Propensity score matching analysis was conducted to determine the causal relation between partner alcohol use and intimate partner violence. Intimate partner violence was the outcome variable and partner alcohol use was the treatment variable. Propensity score matching was carried out through Stata software by using psmatch2 of the logit-based model. The assumption of common support was verified and achieved. Mantel-Haenszel boundaries have been used to investigate the possibility of hidden bias in the outcome.ResultThe prevalence of partner alcohol use and intimate partner violence from East African countries was 37.94 with a CI of (37.58%, 38.29%) and 41.45% with a CI (41.09%, 41.80%) respectively. Partner alcohol use contributed to a 2.78% increase in intimate partner violence according to the estimated average treatment on treated values in the treated and control groups were 59.41% and 31.51%, respectively. Ultimately, it was found that among all research participants, the average effect on the population as a whole was 25.33%.ConclusionWe conclude that partner alcohol use has a direct cause for intimate partner violence. Therefore, controlling partner alcohol consumption can reduce the burden of intimate partner violence.

Prevalence of intimate partner violence among Indian women and their determinants: a cross-sectional study from national family health survey – 5

IntroductionIntimate partner violence (IPV) can be described as a violation of human rights that results from gender inequality. It has arisen as a contemporary issue in societies from both developing and industrialized countries and an impediment to long-term development. This study evaluates the prevalence of IPV and its variants among the empowerment status of women and identify the associated sociodemographic parameters, linked to IPV.MethodsThis study is based on data from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) of India, 2019-21 a nationwide survey that provides scientific data on health and family welfare. Prevalence of IPV were estimated among variouss social and demographic strata. Pearson chi-square test was used to estimate the strength of association between each possible covariate and IPV. Significantly associated covariates (from univariate logistic regression) were further analyzed through separate bivariate logistic models for each of the components of IPV, viz-a-viz sexual, emotional, physical and severe violence of the partners.ResultsThe prevalence of IPV among empowered women was found to be 26.21%. Among those who had experienced IPV, two-thirds (60%) were faced the physical violence. When compared to highly empowered women, less empowered women were 74% more likely to face emotional abuse. Alcohol consumption by a partner was established to be attributing immensely for any kind of violence, including sexual violence [AOR: 3.28 (2.83–3.81)].ConclusionsOur research found that less empowered women experience all forms of IPV compared to more empowered women. More efforts should to taken by government and other stakeholders to promote women empowerment by improving education, autonomy and decision-making ability.

Multilevel analysis of intimate partner violence and associated factors among reproductive-age women: Kenya demographic and health survey 2022 data

IntroductionIntimate partner violence is a human rights violation that often involves violence against women, which appears to be the most prevalent type of abuse. Intimate partner violence is a major global public health issue that includes physical, emotional, and sexual violence. The prevalence of intimate partner violence in Africa is high. The burden of intimate partner violence among reproductive-age women is high in Kenya. Therefore, the main aim of this study is to determine the associated factors of intimate partner violence among reproductive-age women at the individual and community level from the recent Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) 2022 data of Kenya.MethodsThe Kenya National Demographic and Health Survey data of 2022 was used for this study. The overall sample size for this study was 14,612, which focused on women aged 15 to 49 years who had ever been partnered and responded to the domestic violence module. Multilevel logistic regression models to determine the prevalence and associated factors at the individual and community level with intimate partner violence with a 95% Confidence Interval (CI) and Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR).ResultThe overall prevalence of intimate partner violence was 41.1% with a 95% CI (40.07%, 42.60. Male-headed households, poorest and middle wealth status, partner alcohol use, separated/widowed current marital status, and low education of women were statistically significantly associated with intimate partner violence at the individual level variables in this study.ConclusionsThe prevalence of intimate partner violence was high. Educating women, reducing partner alcohol use, and improving the economic status of women, were crucial in mitigating the burden of intimate partner violence. The intimate partners are supposed to respect the rights of women.

Prevalence of intimate partner violence in pregnant women during the COVID-19 epidemic in Qazvin-Iran 2021

IntroductionIntimate partner violence (IPV) in pregnant women is considered one of the most important types of violence, which can include physical, psychological abuse and sexual violence. During the lockdown due to COVID-19, the home is at risk of becoming a very dangerous place for victims of domestic violence. We aimed to determine the prevalence of IPV and associated factors in pregnant women in Qazvin, Iran.MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted on 450 pregnant mothers who were referred to the Kowsar Hospital Prenatal Clinic in Qazvin in 2021. Participants were assessed using a questionnaire consisting of four parts (demographic data, Abuse Assessment Screen (AAS) for domestic violence, The Revised Conflict Tactics Scale (CTS2) for IPV. Data were collected and analysis was performed via SPSS software version 22 using a non-parametric test; Mann–Whitney and × 2 tests.ResultsThe overall prevalence of IPV was higher in pregnant women than their husbands in Qazvin. The most common form of IPV was psychological aggression (24.8%), followed by scale of injury (8.2%), physical (3.3%) and sexual (4.2%) violence. In addition, analysis of the AAS questionnaire shows that psychological violence is the most common form of domestic violence among pregnant women.ConclusionIn this study, IPV in pregnant women has increased slightly compared to studies conducted in the years leading up to the COVID-19. Risk of IPV was not related to previous COVID-19 infection. Collaborative efforts between various stakeholders and policy actions must be taken to ensure the safety and protection of pregnant women during this challenging time.

Association between individual-level socioeconomic factors and intimate partner violence victimisation in women: a systematic review protocol

IntroductionIntimate partner violence (IPV) is a global public health problem. Although both men and women experience IPV, the burden is more on women. To address IPV effectively, it is important...

Social norms, diffusion, and women's risk of intimate partner violence in Nepal: Impact assessment of a social and behavior Change communication intervention (Change Starts at home)

IntroductionIntimate partner violence (IPV) is a significant public health, human rights, and development issue. While existing evidence posits that addressing social norms is key to IPV prevention, successful IPV interventions that include a norms approach are limited in number and methodological rigor and rarely include a formal investigation of the diffusion of intervention impact. We contribute novel findings to this intellectual and programmatic space with evidence on a social and behavior change communication (SBCC) intervention (Change Starts at Home) in Nepal designed to prevent IPV and shift social norms towards greater gender equity. MethodsParticipants included 442 married women across 13 communities assessed at three timepoints: before intervention (baseline), at the completion of the core couple's curriculum and edutainment (midline), and at the conclusion of the diffusion curriculum (endline). Generalized estimating equations with propensity-score adjustments were used to determine change in outcomes at midline and endline for two intervention conditions (direct beneficiary, N = 173; and resident of the intervention community, (N = 178) relative to control (N = 91). ResultsIPV victimization significantly decreased in both intervention conditions at midline, with larger reductions in direct beneficiaries. At endline, direct beneficiaries had sustained reduction in IPV relative to control participants. Positive injunctive norms also significantly improved by midline for both intervention groups, whereas improvements in descriptive norms for intervention groups were matched by improvements in the control group at both midline and endline. Several secondary outcomes showed significant improvements for both intervention groups at midline and/or endline, including in-law violence, financial decision-making, communication, and relationship quality, with additional improvements for the direct beneficiaries in attitudes, leadership, GBV advocacy, and diffusion. ConclusionThis study sheds light on the effectiveness of the Change intervention, the role of addressing social norms in IPV prevention efforts, and the benefits of organized diffusion.

Screening for Intimate Partner Violence in Trauma: Results of a Quality Improvement Project

IntroductionIntimate partner violence (IPV) is common, especially among patients presenting with traumatic injury. We implemented an IPV screening program for patients admitted after trauma. We sought to determine whether specific demographic or clinical characteristics were associated with being screened or not screened for IPV and with IPV screen results. MethodsRetrospective cohort study evaluating all patients admitted after trauma from July 2020-July 2022 in an Adult Level 1 Trauma Center. ResultsThere were 4147 admissions following traumatic injury, of which 70% were men and 30% were women. The cohort was 46% White, 20% Asian, 15% Black, and 17% other races. Twenty-three percent were Hispanic or Latino/a. Seventy-seven percent were admitted for blunt injuries and 16% for penetrating injuries. Thirteen percent (n = 559) of the cohort was successfully screened for IPV. Screening rates did not differ by gender, race, or ethnicity. After adjustment for demographic and clinical factors, patients admitted to the intensive care unit were significantly less likely to be screened. Of the screened patients, 30% (165) screened positive. These patients were more commonly Hispanic or Latino/a, insured by Medicaid and presented with a penetrating injury. There were no differences in injury severity in patients who screened positive versus those who screened negative. ConclusionsThere are significant barriers to universal screening for IPV, including injury acuity, in patients admitted following trauma. However, the 30% rate of positive screens for IPV in patients admitted following trauma highlights the urgent need to understand and address barriers to screening in trauma settings to enable universal screening.

Intimate partner violence and suicide mortality: a cross-sectional study using machine learning and natural language processing of suicide data from 43 states

IntroductionIntimate partner violence (IPV) is associated with suicidal ideation, yet it remains unclear how often IPV precipitates suicide mortality. To overcome limitations with national data, we applied novel methods to:...

Intimate partner violence against married women of reproductive age in Nepal during the COVID-19 pandemic

IntroductionIntimate partner violence (IPV) is a significant public health concern in Nepal and its prevalence has increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of IPV among married women of reproductive age in Nepal during the pandemic. MethodsA web-based survey was conducted with 420 participants using a validated questionnaire adopted from the World Health Organization. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed. ResultsOur study found that 52.62% of participants experienced IPV during the COVID-19 pandemic with economic violence being the most prevalent type (38.81%) and followed by behavioral control (37.14%), emotional violence (26.20%), physical violence (21.43%), and sexual violence (14.05%). Despite the high level of IPV, only 14% of participants sought help and only 6% reported the violence to the police. Univariate analyses showed that factors such as the husband's level of education and occupation, number of children, property ownership, husband's alcohol use, relationship and quarrels with the husband, fear of the husband, and participation in decision-making were associated with an increased risk of IPV. Multivariate analysis revealed that women involved in decision-making faced a 2.52 times higher risk of violence, that women who reported daily quarrels had a risk 5.47 times that of women who did not endorse fights, and that women who were afraid of their husbands had a risk 16 times that of women who did not report fear. ConclusionThis study reveals a concerning prevalence of IPV among married women in Nepal during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our findings emphasize the low reporting rates and help-seeking behavior among IPV victims. They also highlight the significant influence of factors such as participation in decision-making, frequent quarrels, and fear. These findings underscore the urgent need to establish support systems for IPV victims and develop targeted interventions tailored to the local context. Furthermore, conducting comprehensive research and understanding the interplay of contributing factors can guide the formulation of effective strategies to combat this pervasive societal problem.

Análisis de la violencia física de pareja en Perú: un análisis temporal antes y durante la pandemia por COVID-19

IntroductionIntimate partner violence is a frequent problem worldwide. The COVID-19 pandemic and confinement put both aggressors and victims in the same environment, which may have increased this problem. The aim of this study is to visualize the physical violence situation in couples from 2017 to 2022 in Peru. Materials and methodsUsing information provided by the Center for Women's Emergency, a descriptive analysis of temporal trends from January 2017 to December 2022 was carried out. To evaluate the relationship with the number of cases, a regression analysis was performed, and determination coefficients were reported before and after COVID-19 confinement. ResultsA total of 179,737 cases of physical violence in couples were obtained during the study period. A tendency towards a decrease was observed in the months following COVID-19 confinement in all categories. The rural area maintained a persistence in the number of cases before and after the pandemic. Significant differences were also found in couples or ex-couples who live together or apart, with those who do not live together having a greater decrease by the end of 2022. ConclusionThe trends in the number of cases showed differences before and after the COVID-19 lockdown, according to the studied variables. Certain factors, such as post-pandemic family situations or the surveillance status in cases of violence, could impact the presented outcomes and necessitate a more rigorous analysis.

Intimate partner violence against HIV-Positive women on ART follow-up and associated factors in public health facilities of western Ethiopia

IntroductionIntimate partner violence is the most pervasive but less recognized problem which affects millions of women world. It is more common among marginalized individuals including women affected by HIV. However, there is limited information regarding this problem among HIV-Positive Women in Ethiopia. Thus, the study was aimed to assess the magnitude and factors associated with intimate partner violence among HIV positive women in western Ethiopia.MethodsA facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among HIV-positive women on ART follow-up in Nekemte town. A total of 420 women were selected by the simple random sampling technique and an interviewer-administered questionnaire was used for data collection. The data were entered to EpiData version 3.1 and analyzed by SPSS version 20. Univariable and mult- variable logistic regression analysis with their corresponding odds ratio (95%CI) were computed, and statistical significance was declared at p < 0.05.ResultsThe magnitude of intimate partner violence among HIV-positive Women during Lifetime and since diagnosed with HIV was 49.29%, [(95% CI: 44.3–53.6%)] and 41.67%, [(95% CI: 37.1–45.7%)] respectively. Skipping daily ART medication ≥ 6 times/month [AOR = 3.56; (95% CI 1.18, 10.74)], experiencing controlling behavior by a partner[AOR = 6.37; (95% CI 3.26, 12.44)], women inter-parental witness of violence [AOR = 1.74; (95% CI 1.09, 2.79)], women having favorable attitude that justify wife-beating [AOR = 1.76; (95% CI 1.06, 2.94)]and non-disclosure of test result to partner [AOR 0.38; (95% CI 0.22, 0.66)] were factors associated with intimate partner violence since diagnosed with HIV.ConclusionThe magnitude of intimate partner violence among HIV-positive Women on ART follow-up was found to be high in the study area. Therefore, integrating intimate partner violence victim screening with ART services, empowering HIV-positive women, and increasing their awareness of sexual and reproductive rights is needed.

Assessment of Emergency Department Health Care Providers’ Readiness for Managing Intimate Partner Violence and Correlation With Perceived Cultural Competence

IntroductionIntimate partner violence is a public health problem, and emergency departments are often a victim’s only contact with health care providers. Despite this, recognition of intimate partner violence within emergency departments remains low owing, in part, to barriers experienced by providers. To better understand these barriers, this study examined relationships between readiness for managing intimate partner violence and cultural competence among emergency department health care providers. MethodsA cross-sectional, correlational study was conducted in 3 emergency departments. Eligible participants included registered nurses, physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and residents. Data were collected through an anonymous online self-report survey. Descriptive statistics and correlation analyses were conducted to answer study aims. ResultsOur sample included 67 respondents. More than one-third (38.8%) reported no previous intimate partner violence training. Those with previous training had higher readiness scores. Physicians were found to have higher intimate partner violence knowledge scores than registered nurses. Cultural competence scores were generally positive across domains. Aspects of intimate partner violence readiness were associated with culturally competent behaviors, communication, and practices. DiscussionOverall, participants were found to have low perceived readiness scores. Those with previous intimate partner violence training were found to have greater readiness in practice, suggesting that standardization of screening practices and intimate partner violence-related training should be the standard of care. Our data also suggest that perception of culturally competent behaviors and communication are learned skills that can increase screening rates within the emergency department.

(337) The Impact of COVID-19 Related Restrictions on the Prevalence of Intimate Partner Violence in the Republic of Armenia

Abstract Introduction Intimate partner violence (IPV), which is domestic abuse committed by an intimate partner, is the most prevalent type of violence against women. Growing evidence shows that the incidence of IPV has increased since the application of COVID-19 related restrictive measures. Evidence from past pandemics and crises has revealed that the most common factors that increase the risk for violence include economic insecurity, poverty-related stress, job loss or reduced working hours, quarantine, and social isolation. Objective This research aimed to identify the impact of COVID-19 related restrictive measures on the prevalence of IPV during the pandemic in the Republic of Armenia. Methods This study was an online cross-sectional survey conducted as part of the second round of the International Sexual Health and Reproductive Health (I-SHARE), a series of surveys conducted in more than 30 countries to study sexual and reproductive health during COVID-19 measures. The instrument consists of 14 sections of which only the IPV section was used for this analysis. In order to be eligible for the study the participants had to be 18 years of age or older, currently reside in the Republic of Armenia, speak Armenian, and be able to provide informed consent online. The data collection was conducted during a 4-week period (from 22 October until 20 November 2021). Results Overall 296 people participated in this study of which 196 (66.2%) were female at the time of birth. 14% of the respondents were physically abused by their partner at least once during the last three months. Meanwhile 13% of the respondents were sexually assaulted many times of which 72.4% were also physically abused during the same period. 30% and 33% of people who were physically and sexually abused, respectively, began to experience more violence after COVID 19 restrictions. Conclusions To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to examine the incidence and prevalence of IPV as a result of COVID-19 related restrictive measures in the Republic of Armenia. It is worth noting that approximately one third of the people who were physically and/or sexually abused, began to experience more violence after the COVID-19 restrictions. Meanwhile, the situation with sexual and physical violence among the majority of people who are silent about violence has generally worsened since the restrictions of COVID-19. Disclosure No

Psychological distress, intimate partner violence and substance use in a representative sample from Mexico: A structural equation model

Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) is a public health concern associated with multiple adverse health outcomes, including psychological distress (PD). To assess the association of IPV and psychological distress, and the mediation of tobacco and alcohol consumption in a national representative sample from Mexico. Data from the Encuesta Nacional de Consumo de Drogas, Tabaco y Alcohol (ENCODAT) were analyzed. The sample included 34,864 people between the ages of 12 and 65 with a partner. Using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), the association between IPV, use alcohol, tobacco and psychological distress was measured. The population was composed of women (51.9%) and men (48.1%); 15.1% (women = 18.2% and men = 11.9%) reported IPV in the last year. The prevalence of psychological distress in the last year was 3.3%, being 3.8% in women, and 2.7% in men. Results from the SEM in women indicated a direct positive effect of the IPV construct on psychological distress (β = 0.298, p < 0.01); these findings confirmed that IPV tended to systematically increase psychological distress. Likewise, the presence of IPV increased the consumption of tobacco (β = 0.077, p < 0.01) and alcohol (β = 0.072, p < 0.01). The SEM results in men showed that alcohol and tobacco consumption tended to increase in the presence of IPV (β = 0.121, p < 0.01, and β = 0.086, p < 0.01, respectively), and in turn, alcohol consumption and tobacco tended to increase psychological distress (β = 0.024, p < 0.01, and β = 0.025, p < 0.01, respectively). This study indicated that in women, IPV had a direct effect on psychological distress and on alcohol and tobacco consumption. Meanwhile in men, alcohol and tobacco consumption had a mediating effect between IPV and psychological distress. The empirical findings of this study will contribute toward the design of public health policies for the prevention and attention of IPV, alcohol and tobacco consumption, and consequently address the mental health consequences derived from these problems.

Self esteem among Tunisian women victims of domestic violence

IntroductionIntimate partner violence is an under recognized problem in our society that is misjudged and often overlooked.Violence in women has been linked to chronic health, emotional complications, one of which includes low self-esteemObjectivesTo study the prevalence and predictors of low self-esteem among women victims of domestic violence.MethodsOur study was descriptive and analytical cross-sectional, carried out with women examined in the context of medical expertise, from May until January 2022.An anonymous survey was asked to these ladies.The Rosenberg questionnaire was used to assess the self esteemResults122 responses was collected.The average age of the assaulted women in our study was 35.66 years(from18 to 64 years) 98.4%were victims of verbal violence, 95,1% of physical violence, 97,5% of psychological violence and 54.7 %of sexual violence.Self esteem was very low among 43,4% of women ,low among 18,9%,average among 15,6%,high among 15,6% and very high among 6,6%.Women with children had lower self-esteem (p=0.02).Low self-esteem were significantly correlated with: the husband cannabis consumption (p=0.01).The ladies victims of sexual violence such as an unusual type of relationship had lower self-esteem (p=0.01).Women who were threatened by their spouses had lower self-esteem (0,01).An history of aggression during pregnancy was a risk factor for low self-esteem (p=0, 01).ConclusionsResults suggest domestic violence has on women, not only physically effect but mentally and emotionally, this is why an urgent reaction must be taken by the state to reduce this scourge and hs repercussions on the mental health of the victims.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared

Intimate partner violence and associated factors among HIV positive women attending antiretroviral therapy clinics in Gondar city, Northwest Ethiopia

IntroductionIntimate partner violence against women is a behavior within an intimate relationship that causes sexual, physical, or psychological harm to the women. It occurs among all socioeconomic, religious, and cultural groups in all settings, and affects the health of women, families, and the community at large. Determining the magnitude and determinants of intimate partner violence against HIV positive women could help to design preventive and control strategies. However, there is a dearth of information regarding the magnitude and determinants of intimate partner violence against HIV positive women in Ethiopia. Thus, this study aimed to assess the magnitude and associated factors of intimate partner violence against HIV positive women in Gondar city, Northwest Ethiopia.MethodA facility-based cross-sectional study was carried out from February to May 2021 in selected public health facilities of Gondar city among 626 HIV positive women. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select study participants. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package of Social Science (SPSS) version 20 software. Bivariable and Multivariable logistic regression models were done. Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was used to identify determinants of intimate partner violence. Statistical significance was considered at a p value < 0.05.ResultsThe overall prevalence of intimate partner violence against HIV positive women within the last 12 months was 64.2% (95% CI 60.4, 68.2). Physical violence was the most common type (54.8%), followed by sexual (51.1%) and emotional (48.9%) violence. Intimate partner violence among HIV positive women was associated with women’s age 19–24 (AOR = 0.13, 95% CI 0.02, 0.79), monthly income of 500–2500 (AOR = 6.5, 95% CI 1.72, 25.0), urban residence (AOR = 0.35, 95% CI 0.13, 0.91), partner drink alcohol (AOR = 2.14, 95% CI 1.42, 4.06), and a husband with no multiple sexual partners (AOR = 0.75, 95% CI 0.34, 0.94).ConclusionThe result of this study revealed that intimate partner violence against HIV positive women was found to be high. Thus, protective measures that could increase the community’s and women’s awareness about the consequences of various forms of violence, and women empowerment are paramount. Priorities in programs of gender-based violence prevention should involve women from rural residences, older age, and males who consume alcohol.

Partner alcohol consumption and intimate partner violence against women in sexual unions in sub-Saharan Africa.

Intimate partner violence is increasingly gaining attention as the leading form of violence against women globally, particularly sub-Saharan Africa. Given that substance abuse, especially alcohol consumption has long been associated with aggressive behaviour, emotional abuse, and sexual misconduct, it is surprising that studies on the potential association between partner's alcohol consumption and intimate partner violence are scarce. The current study seeks to fill this gap in the literature by examining the association between partner's alcohol consumption and intimate partner violence among women in sub-Saharan Africa. Cross-sectional survey data of 89,229 women aged 15 to 49 in sexual unions from 21 sub-Saharan African countries were pooled from the Demographic and Health Surveys. Percentages with their corresponding confidence intervals (CIs) were used to present the results of the prevalence of partner's alcohol consumption and intimate partner violence. Multivariable binary logistic regression analysis was used to examine the association between partner's alcohol consumption and intimate partner violence. The regression analysis results were presented using adjusted odds ratio (aOR) with 95% CI. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05. The pooled prevalence of partner alcohol consumption was 36.3% [36.0-36.6]. The highest prevalence of partner alcohol consumption was found in Burundi (67.1%) with Mali (3.9%) recording the lowest prevalence. Similarly, the overall prevalence of physical violence, emotional violence, and sexual violence among the women were 19.7% [19.2-20.2], 25.0% [24.5-25.5], and 9.7% [9.3-10.1], respectively. In the pooled data, women whose partners consumed alcohol were more likely to experience physical violence [aOR = 2.37, 95% CI = 2.24-2.50], emotional violence [aOR = 1.96, 95% CI = 1.86-2.07], and sexual violence [aOR = 2.03, 95% CI = 1.89-2.18] compared to those whose partners did not consume alcohol. In all the 21 countries, women whose partners consumed alcohol had higher odds for physical and emotional violence. The odds of sexual violence was higher among women whose partners consumed alcohol compared to their counterparts whose partners did not in 20 countries, except Namibia. We found that partner's alcohol consumption increases women's likelihood of experiencing physical, emotional, and sexual violence in sub-Saharan Africa. There is the need to implement behavioural change interventions targeted at male partners to reduce alcohol consumption. The findings call for the need to effectively create and organize support networks in addressing intimate partner violence among married and cohabiting women.

Study protocol: A randomised trial of the effectiveness of the Common Elements Treatment Approach (CETA) for improving HIV treatment outcomes among women experiencing intimate partner violence in South Africa

IntroductionIntimate partner violence (IPV) is a barrier to consistent HIV treatment in South Africa. Previous trials have established that the Common Elements Treatment Approach (CETA), a cognitive-behavioural-based intervention, is effective...

Intimate Partner Violence and Its Predictors among Pregnant Women in Eastern Ethiopia: Generalized Structural Equation Modeling.

Introduction Intimate partner violence (IPV) has a negative impact on women's physical, mental, sexual, and reproductive health. Identifying the determinant factors of IPV among pregnant women is of paramount importance to overcome its negative consequences thereby increasing the performance of women in all activities. Thus, this study applied a generalized structural equation model (GSEM) to determine the prevalence of intimate partner violence among pregnant women and its predictors in Eastern Ethiopia. Methods A community based cross-sectional study was conducted in Kersa Health and Demographic Surveillance System (KHDSS), Eastern Ethiopia. Data were collected form a sample of 1051 pregnant women using structured questionnaires. Descript findings were presented in percentage with 95% confidence interval. The generalized structural equation model was used to determine factors associated with each domain of IPV (physical, emotional, and social violence). Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with a 95% CI were used to declare significant factors associated with intimate partner violence. Results The overall prevalence of IPV in the Eastern Ethiopia was 48.57% (95% CI: 45.45, 51.69). The highest intimate partner violence was observed in the sexual domain of IPV (31.6%, 95% CI: (28.8, 34.58)). In GSEM, being a farmer (AOR = 0.42, 95% CI: 0.19, 0.91) was significantly associated with psychological domain of IPV. Age (AOR = 0.97, 95% CI: 0.95, 0.99) and educational status (neither read nor write) (AOR = 2.50, 95% CI: 1.61, 3.89) were significantly associated with physical domain of IPV. Being in medium (AOR = 0.64, 95% CI: 0.46, 0.90) and rich (AOR = 0.53, 95% CI: 0.36, 0.78), wealth quintiles were significantly associated with sexual domain of IPV, whereas husband controlling behavior was significantly associated with all domains of IPV. Conclusions The magnitude of IPV among pregnant women was relatively high in Eastern Ethiopia. This finding pin a light to pay special consideration to pregnant women at each point of service delivery to alleviate consequence of IPV. Being a farmer, older ages and being in higher wealth quintiles were protective factor, whereas being uneducated increase the risk of IPV. Improving socioeconomic status and promoting legal rights of women is needed to alleviate the problem, and younger women require special attention.