An Epidemiological Study of Sexual Assault in Barishal District, Bangladesh

Abstract

Introduction: sexual assault is defined as sexual intercourse performed in a way, which is against the provision of the law of the land. Sex related crime is the most barbarous and humiliating. Rape is the most serious sexual offences, still carrying the death penalty in some parts of the world.  young girls and children remain the most vulnerable group to this crime. the alarming rise in the rate of sexual assault worldwide represents a major public health problem. Objective: The aim of our study was to ascertain incidence of sexual violence in Barishal district and to analyze data with respect to epidemiological and demographic characteristics, relationship between victim and assailant, time of reporting of cases, patterns of physical injuries and evidence collection from victim of sexual violence which may contribute to suggest preventive measure to minimize the violence. Methods and Material: The study was conducted on 291 sexually assaulted victims who reported in forensic medicine department of Sher-E-Bangla Medical College (SBMC). Barishal, Bangladesh for medical examination during the period 1st January to 31 December 2022. Details pertaining to age, sex, marital status, occupation of victims, place of incidence, time interval between incidence and medical examination. Number of assailants, relationship with assailants, findings of physical or genital examination and result of evidence collected during examination were noted. Results: Out of 291 victims of sexual assault 70% were in 11-20 years, and 18% were 21-30 years of age group. 55% where unmarried, the major of the victim 74% were known to the assailants and most of the cases they were close friends & relatives.69% victims were students, a total 55% victims were examined within 5days and place of occurrence mostly victims house, assailants house, hostel, hotel and park. 85% of victims were found with old ruptured hymen. Conclusion: The study high light the importance of addressing rape as an important health issue and this finding may be helpful for policy makers and program planners to make awareness among the people.