Physical intimate partner violence, prevalence and risk factors among rural women in Missan governorate, Iraq, 2009

ABSTRACT

Intimate Partner Violence [IPV], a most common form of violence against women, is a worldwide serious problem as a public health and human rights' concern. Health consequences of IPV are numerous and may be fatal It is a risk for unhealthy behaviors like smoking. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of lifetime physical IPV and potential risk factors among currently married women in rural Missan Governorate, south of Iraq 2009. A household population based cross sectional study was conducted in 2009 on a systematic random sample of 3345 households in rural Missan Governorate. One currently married woman aged 15-49 years was randomly selected from each sampled household. Physical IPV was defined as having any of the following experiences was slapped or her arm twisted, pushed or shoved, kicked or dragged, punched, threatened or attacked with a weapon. Logistic regression models were used. Response rate was 96%; mean age 31.25 years [+/- SD 8.262]. Overall prevalence of lifetime physical IPV was [27.5%]. The most common form was pushing and shoving [23.2%]. Older women were significantly more prone to experience physical IPV. Those with 1 -6 live children had significantly higher risk of physical IPV. Experience of any husband's controlling behaviour increases the risk of physical IPV. Prevalence of physical IPV is high in rural Missan Governorate. A more in depth analytical study is recommended to determine other IPV risk factors and health consequences. Strengthening of the national programs aimed to empower women and community education regarding IPV is recommended