Daijiworld Media Network- New Delhi
New Delhi, May 8: A recent study published in The Lancet has revealed a shocking reality: nearly one in five women and one in seven men globally experience sexual violence by the time they are 15 years old. Conducted by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) at the University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, the study highlights the widespread nature of sexual abuse during childhood.
The research found that 67% of females and 72% of males who were victims of sexual violence reported their first experience of abuse before the age of 18. Furthermore, nearly 42% of females and 48% of males were first abused before the age of 16. Disturbingly, the study also revealed that 8% of female survivors and 14% of male survivors experienced sexual violence before the age of 12.
Dr. Emmanuela Gakidou, senior author of the study and Professor at IHME, emphasized the severe implications of these findings, calling sexual violence against children a pressing human rights issue. "The world is clearly failing to end it," Gakidou stated. "The proportion of survivors facing sexual abuse at such a young age is deeply concerning, and we need urgent action from all countries to improve laws, policies, and responses."
The study, which analyzed data from 204 locations worldwide between 1990 and 2023, underscores the long-term impacts of sexual violence. Survivors face increased risks of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, sexually transmitted infections, and even asthma. The social, educational, and economic consequences are also far-reaching, highlighting the urgent need for effective prevention and support systems.
The research also pointed out significant gaps in data collection and the need for improved surveillance, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. To combat these issues, experts stress the importance of standardized practices for tracking sexual violence and better child protection policies.
This alarming revelation calls for immediate global attention and action to protect vulnerable children and ensure justice for survivors of sexual violence.