Intimate Partner Violence May Cause Traumatic Brain Injury

Intimate partner violence (IPV) refers to violence that happens within a relationship. IPV affects approximately 1 in 3 women and 1 in 10 men. Women are more likely to sustain serious injuries. Many victims of IPV suffer from blunt forces to face area, which may cause mild traumatic brain injury (TBI).

IPV is an under-recognized public health problem with an economic burden of $3.6 trillion in the USA. It is estimated that 75 % of female IPV survivors can have unrecognized and undiagnosed TBI. Symptoms of IPV-related TBI include memory loss, hearing and vision disturbances, concentration difficulties, and psychiatric problems.

Only about 20 % of women, who report an IPV-related head injury, receive TBI screening or medical care. Untreated head injuries may lead to chronic health problems. In addition, receiving the right treatment increases the chance of survival from IPV-related injuries. As such, it is important to raise awareness of IPV and TBI, help victims to navigate local health services, and increase the availability of screening and other diagnosing methods for TBI.

Medicortex Finland Plc is developing a rapid diagnostic test for point-of-care or self-testing of TBI. The test can be done for example in shelters. For more information, please visit www.medicortex.fi

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(NOTE: If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, you can always seek help. In Finland, you can call for example the Women’s Line or if in immediate danger the emergency services at 112.)