Affiliations 

  • 1 Universiti Malaysia Sabah
  • 2 University of Medicine Manda (Myanmar)
MyJurnal

Abstract

Introduction: Violence Against Women has increasingly been recognized in the international areas as an obstacle to women’s development and it may have a myriad of devastating consequences on women’s long or short- term health and wellbeing. The study explored the highlight the prevalence and health effects of Violence Against Women which might reflect the probable causes, the types of injuries, leading factors and consequences of the violence. Methods:Hospital based case study, which was referred to forensic department, Mandalay General Hospital from 1st Jan 2000 to 30th Sept 2000. Personal interview and medical examination of 50-100 victims, girls & women, who were phys-ically and sexually violated was done. Results: Total 92 patients were interviewed and examined, prevalence of dif-ferent age ranging from 5 to 56, were physically and sexually violated during the study period, 62 patients were phys-ically assaulted, and 30 victims were sexually violated. 20-40 age group is more commonly conflicted by physical violence 69.3%) while 10-20 age group were commonly conflicted by sexual violence (56.6%). Pattern of different types of injury and locations are also recorded as a consequence of physical assault and commonest injury is bruise (47%). Commonest location is injury over head & neck (61.8%). Relationship to perpetrator were recorded, physical assaults were commonly by spouse (39%) while sexual assaults were acquaintance (58%). Events leading to violence at home are recorded as nuclear family and alcohol consumption is more common, fights were most common events in community setting. Conclusion: Violence Against Women is neither prevalent nor uncommon in Myanmar. In this study, all forms of injuries were recorded and among them the commonest injuries were bruises, the event leading to violence recorded as fights, alcohol consumption, nuclear family was most common. Violence has a psychological impact on other members of the family, particularly children. However, a multi-sectoral approach has become a necessity to create a happy family, society and nation. It could be achieved by uplifting the socio-economic status of the family, practising the religious teachings and abiding within the framework of the laws. The Trans-National Committed should be formed to effectively minimize trafficking in women and children in the Region.