Open AccessThe Health of Trafficked Women: A Survey of Women Entering Posttrafficking Services in Europe
Author(s) -
Cathy Zimmerman,
Mazeda Hossain,
Katherine Yun,
Vasil Gajdadziev,
Natalia Guzun,
María Tchomarova,
Rosa Ángela Ciarrocchi,
Ada Johansson,
Anna Kefurtova,
Stefania Scodanibbio,
María Nenette Motus,
Brenda Roche,
Linda Morison,
Charlotte Watts
Publication year - 2008
Publication title -
american journal of public health
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.284
H-Index - 264
eISSN - 1541-0048
pISSN - 0090-0036
DOI - 10.2105/ajph.2006.108357
Subject(s) - sexual abuse , mental health , medicine , immigration , physical abuse , suicide prevention , psychiatry , poison control , occupational safety and health , injury prevention , family medicine , psychology , environmental health , political science , pathology , law
Trained counselors interviewed 192 women who had been trafficked and sexually exploited about abuse and evaluated their physical and mental health status within 14 days of entry into posttrafficking services. Most reported physical or sexual violence while trafficked (95%), pre-trafficking abuse (59%), and multiple posttrafficking physical and psychological problems. Newly identified trafficked women require immediate attention to address posttrauma symptoms and adequate recovery time before making decisions about participating in prosecutorial or immigration proceedings or returning home.