Systematic review of quantitative studies on prevalence of intimate partner violence against women in Sub-Saharan Africa (Low and-Middle-Income Countries).

Abstract

Background: Intimate partner violence (IPV) and abuse against women is a huge societal issue which is seen to affect the progress of the SDG 5.2 goal. Sub-Saharan African Low and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) is the region with the highest prevalence of IPV globally, affecting both married and unmarried women in relationships and marriages, respectively. Therefore, the aim of this study was to have an in-depth understanding of the high prevalence rate of IPV against women in Sub-Saharan African LMICs, thereby understanding the somewhat complex nature of IPV against women, to identify possible causes and provide information necessary to develop solutions. The systematic review assessed the factors relating to the high prevalence of IPV and abuse against women in the selected Sub-Saharan African LMICs, identifying the overall lifetime and 12 months prior to the study time’s prevalence rates.

Methods: A systematic review of literature was conducted where relevant databases were searched using key terms related to the topic, with the aid of the PEO (Population, Exposure, Outcomes) search framework. Studies were selected based on set inclusion and exclusion criteria. Thereafter, the screening process was carried out first by excluding duplicates of studies selected from the database. Following this was a title and abstract screening, and then a full text screening.

Results: It was found that these prevalence rates were high due to the existence of various types of IPV like physical, economic, sexual, verbal, emotional/psychological and controlling behaviour. The lifetime/overall prevalence rate ranged from 25.5% to 78.5%. This supported research which suggested that this region has a high rate of IPV against women, establishing itself in different forms.

Conclusion: IPV is a highly prevalent issue which, if not controlled, will result in physical, mental and sexual/reproductive health issues for women in Sub-Saharan Africa. It is therefore important for the governments of these countries and healthcare professionals to offer specialised services to abused women and ensure men are involved in the fight against IPV. Women who are experiencing IPV should have the opportunity to speak up about their struggles and obtain the required help as and when necessary.