Epidemiology

Sexual violence is a global problem that affects individuals of all ages. Results of a large-scale study presented to the General Assembly of the United Nations in 2006 reported that an estimated 150 million girls and 73 million boys under 18 years of age, worldwide, experienced forced sexual intercourse or other forms of sexual violence during 2002.[3] The same study cited data indicating that 7% to 36% of women and 3% to 29% of men reported sexual victimization during childhood.

An estimated 4.5% of children in the US have experienced childhood sexual abuse, but this is likely an underestimate because the data are limited to reported cases.[4] A general population survey of children 0 to 17 years of age in the US showed a 1% decline in aggregate sexual assault from 2011 to 2014.[5] It is unclear whether the increase and later decline in reported child sexual rates in the 20th century represent true trends or changes in reporting practices.[6][7][8]​ Estimating the prevalence of childhood sexual abuse is problematic because of varying definitions for what is considered abuse, not only on the part of researchers and policy-makers, but also by the victims themselves. Furthermore, the sensitive nature of the topic is likely to influence official reporting and survey response rates.

The majority of perpetrators of sexual abuse against children are people known to their victims.[3] Girls have a 1.5 to 3 times higher risk of sexual victimization than boys.[3] Whereas associations have been made between other forms of child maltreatment (neglect, emotional abuse, and physical abuse) and social stressors such as poverty and lack of community services, sexual abuse of children occurs across social strata.[9][10]

Global estimates indicate that 30% of women ages 15 years and older have experienced either physical and/or sexual intimate partner violence or nonpartner violence in their lifetime.[11]​ The following groups are at higher risk of sexual abuse: adolescents and young women, people with learning and other disabilities, people with a low income, homeless people, sex workers, incarcerated women, and those living in institutions or areas of conflict.[12][13][14][15]​​​​

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