Intimate partner violence in Appalachia: Associations with physical and mental health outcomes

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is associated with a plethora of negative physical and psychological health outcomes, many of which are documented health disparity conditions. These issues have not previously been examined in the culturally and geographically defined region of Appalachia—a historically underserved area. The purpose of the current study was to investigate the relationship between intimate partner violence and associated physical and mental health outcomes. A convenience sample of female patients presenting to an emergency department or urgent care in a medically underserved Appalachian county were eligible for inclusion. Participants 18 to 65 years of age were administered a survey focusing on health and IPV. Data collection is ongoing. To date, 70 participants have been enrolled in the current study (response rate = 93%). Most participants were white (96%) and their mean age was 35 years. Nearly 30% of women reported “fair” or “poor” health as well as limitations in daily activities due to physical or mental problems. Additionally, 31% and 40% had been diagnosed with an anxiety or depressive disorder, respectively. Over one-quarter of participants reported lifetime physical IPV and 12% reported unwanted sex. Participants that reported ever experiencing physical IPV were significantly more likely (p<.05) to have a diagnosis of an anxiety disorder (55% vs. 13%) or a depressive disorder (72% vs. 28%) than those who did not report IPV. Women in underserved regions of Appalachian may be at increased risk for negative health outcomes associated with IPV. Further investigation of this health disparity population is warranted.