Intimate Partner Violence Among Surgeons: We are Not Immune

Area of Science:

• Medical Research
• Public Health
• Surgical Profession

Background:

• Intimate partner violence (IPV) affects a significant portion of the US population.
• Limited data exists on IPV incidence and risk factors specifically within the surgical community.
• Understanding these factors is crucial for supporting the well-being of surgeons.

Purpose of the Study:

• To estimate the incidence of intimate partner violence (IPV) among surgeons.
• To identify risk factors associated with IPV in this professional group.
• To address a gap in the scientific literature regarding IPV in surgeons.

Main Methods:

• An anonymous online survey was distributed to US-based surgeons via four major surgical societies.
• Data collected included demographics, history of abuse, and other relevant factors.
• Statistical analyses, including chi-square and multivariable logistic regression, were used to identify risk factors.

Main Results:

• 61% of the 882 surveyed surgeons and trainees reported experiencing some form of IPV.
• Emotional abuse was the most prevalent type (57.3%), followed by controlling behavior (35.6%).
• Risk factors identified include history of mental illness, alcohol use, childhood abuse, and female sex.

Conclusions:

• This study is the first national investigation into IPV among surgeons.
• Surgeons experience IPV at significant rates.
• The identified risk factors for IPV in surgeons mirror those found in the general population.