Vulnerability Factors for Trauma Injuries in Female Sexual Assault Patients [ID 1298]

INTRODUCTION: Over 433,000 cases of sexual assault occur annually in the United States according to The Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network. Previous data demonstrate age, gender, race, and mental health can increase the likelihood of someone experiencing sexual assault. This study aims to evaluate demographic and vulnerability factors of patients seen within one of New York City’s Sexual Assault Forensic Examiners (SAFE) Program and correlate to degree of trauma severity after sexual assault. METHODS: A retrospective study on female patients 13 years and older seen by the SAFE program from 2021 to 2023 was conducted. Vulnerability factors of age, race, disability, substance abuse, mental health, and assailant type were analyzed and correlated to degree of trauma injury, with a value of P <.05 considered statistically significant. RESULTS: One hundred sixty-seven cases were included. Age ranged from 13 to 93 years. Younger patients (13–20) were more likely to be assaulted by an acquaintance (76.2%), whereas those over 60 were likely assaulted by a stranger (66.7%). One hundred four patients (62.3%) experienced no injury, 51 (30.5%) minor trauma, and 12 (7.2%) major trauma. Assault by an intimate partner increased risk of major trauma compared to acquaintance or stranger (50.0% versus 33.3% versus 16.7%, P = 0.002). Alcohol intoxication at the time of assault (25.7%), substance abuse (47.9%), mental health condition (58.7%), or disability (25.7%) did not increase injury severity. CONCLUSIONS/IMPLICATIONS: This study highlights the diversity of the sexual assault victim population and rate of vulnerability factors present. Knowledge of these factors may aid in both treatment and connection to appropriate resources after assault.