Profile of cardiovascular risk factors among child sexual abuse victims in Puerto Rico

Abstract

Abstract Background Exposure to childhood sexual abuse has a long-term impact on cardiovascular health. Cardiovascular disease is one of the leading causes of death among Hispanics. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors in a group of child sexual abuse victims in Puerto Rico. It also intended to identify the possible impact that the offender's relationship with the victim and the number of victimizations may have on said risk factors. Methods The study consisted of a retrospective chart review at a victim-centered clinical forensic service in Puerto Rico. Medical records were used to identify cardiovascular risk factors and variables associated with child sexual abuse victimization. Means, standard deviation (SD), and frequencies were used to describe the risk factors and the victimization. The Mann–Whitney and Fisher’s exact tests were used to determine the differences between the type of victimization and the risk factors for cardiovascular health. Results Most of the victims were female (81%), with an average age of 10 (SD 3.8) years. According to the 31 reviewed charts, 55% of the children had been sexually assaulted, the offender was a family member (84%), and the assault had occurred more than once (81%). Systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, and body mass index (BMI) was found to be at unhealthy levels (based on age and sex); when the victim reported having been sexually assaulted, the offender was a family member, and more than one assault occurred. Systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and fasting blood sugar were statistically significant among victims who reported being sexually assaulted and/or sexually molested when the offender was a family member, and the victimization occurred more than once. Conclusion This data shows that healthcare professionals who conduct interventions with victims of sexual abuse need to know the circumstances of their victimization to be responsive to their needs and prevent chronic health problems. The victims of child sexual abuse should be screened for cardiovascular risk factors. Trial Registration: Not applicable.