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19/12/2018 | Document
Violence

Intimate partner violencia against women in the Americas: an infographic

Violence against women has been recognized as an important public health and human rights problem, both globally and within the Americas. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 30% of women in the Americas have experienced physical and/or sexual violence by a partner, while 11% have experienced sexual violence by a non-partner.

Intimate partner violence (IPV) – the most common form of violence against women – has serious consequences for women’s health and wellbeing.

A 12-country analysis from the Latin American and Caribbean region   found that large proportions of women who experienced IPV reported physical and mental health consequences, including physical injuries, chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. In most countries, IPV was significantly correlated with lower age at first union, higher parity, and unintended pregnancy. IPV also has well documented negative consequences for children and the broader society.

Author

  • PAHO (Pan American Health Organization)