The health of trafficked women: a survey of women entering posttrafficking services in Europe

Am J Public Health. 2008 Jan;98(1):55-9. doi: 10.2105/AJPH.2006.108357. Epub 2007 Nov 29.

Abstract

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.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Europe
  • Female
  • Health Surveys
  • Humans
  • Mental Health / classification
  • Mental Health / statistics & numerical data*
  • Middle Aged
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Sex Offenses / psychology*
  • Sex Offenses / trends
  • Sex Work / psychology*
  • Sex Work / statistics & numerical data
  • Women's Health*