A survey of the health risks and health problems of trafficked adults in contact with health and support services in England

Introduction:  Human trafficking is defined as the recruitment and movement of individuals by force, coercion, or deception for the purpose of exploitation.  Trafficking has been shown to be associated with a range of physical, sexual, and psychological health problems.  However, a recent systematic review highlighted significant gaps in research on the health risks and problems associated with trafficking.  This study aims to examine the health risks and problems experienced by trafficked people.

Methods:  Cross-sectional survey of trafficked men and women who have received support from statutory health or social care services or voluntary trafficking support services in England.  Survey questions assess physical, psychological, and sexual health symptoms, substance use, experiences of abuse, and health service use using validated instruments, including the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), and primary care Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) screen (PC-PTSD).

Results:  This study is ongoing.  To date, 70 individuals trafficked for sexual exploitation, domestic servitude, and labor exploitation have been interviewed.  Preliminary results suggest this population experiences high levels of symptoms for PTSD, depression, and anxiety.  Preliminary findings will be presented. 

Conclusions:  Trafficked people may experience high levels of symptoms for PTSD, depression, and anxiety.  The findings point to the need for mental health service provision for people who have been trafficked, and research into interventions to reduce psychological distress.