As a community, we cannot ignore the reality that sexual violence is a major public health problem. Sexual violence affects people of all ages, backgrounds, and communities. It can take many forms, including unwanted touching, sexual harassment, rape, and other types of abuse. 

Public health isn’t just about hospitals or vaccines; it’s about creating the conditions where people can live safe, healthy lives, and sexual violence threatens that safety in a deep and lasting way. 

A shocking fact: more than 1 in 3 women and about 1 in 4 men in the United States have experienced some form of sexual violence involving physical contact in their lifetime.

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The impacts go far beyond the moment of harm; survivors often experience long-lasting mental and physical consequences, such as depression, anxiety, and difficulty in school and work. They are also more likely to develop conditions like asthma, irritable bowel syndrome, chronic pain, frequent headaches, and have difficulty sleeping. Over 70% of survivors experience impacts such as post-traumatic stress symptoms, needing medical care, or missing work or school. These effects can continue into adulthood and even old age, showing that sexual violence has long-term health consequences. 

Mental health is also deeply affected. Survivors are more than twice as likely to rate their mental health as “poor” compared to individuals without a history of sexual assault. These mental health challenges can influence relationships, school performance, and work. When we look at sexual violence through this lens, we can better understand how it harms people and how it spreads through our communities, making sexual violence not only a personal problem but a societal one. 

The recognition of sexual violence as a public health problem is important because it encourages action on many levels. April is both Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month and Sexual Assault Awareness Month, and it’s time for all of us to take action!  

Because sexual violence affects so many people, public health experts emphasize that prevention is key. Ending sexual violence is not just about responding to harm after it happens. Prevention means stopping sexual violence before it even happens, and that requires all of us.  

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Awareness is the first step, but not the last. Evidence-based strategies include teaching children and youth about consent, healthy relationships, and gender equality. Communities can strengthen support systems, promote economic and social equity, and provide safe spaces for survivors. We need to speak up and challenge harmful behaviors. Together, we can build a culture where respect and consent are the norm, one where sexual violence has no place.  

References: 

  1. Alexander, K.A., & Miller, E. (2022). Sexual violence- Another public health emergency. JAMA Network Open, 5(10). doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.36285 
  1. Basile, K. C., Smith, S. G., Chen, J., & Zwald, M. (2021). Chronic diseases, health conditions, and other impacts associated with rape victimization of U.S. women. Journal of Interpersonal Violence, 36(23-24), NP12504–NP12520. https://doi.org/10.1177/0886260519900335 

Author

  • Lilian Urquidi

    As the Bilingual Prevention and Health Equity Coordinator at HCWC, Lilian is committed to building healthier communities through education, leadership, and culturally responsive outreach. With a Master’s in Public Health and a passion for health equity, she focuses on empowering individuals with knowledge and tools to take charge of their own well-being path. She believes that love, for yourself, others, and the community, is at the heart of public health. Whether it's through research, advocacy, or meaningful conversations, she will work for a future where everyone has access to the resources they need to thrive.

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