Domestic abuse is a public health issue that transcends the criminal justice system

The impact of this violence extends far beyond the abusive relationship itself and has troubling long-term consequences for the health of victims, writes Maya Oppenheim

Experts warn of ‘devastating impact on the lives of women and children’ (Getty)

Women who have suffered domestic abuse are 44 per cent more likely to die from any cause than the wider population – demonstrating the need for it to be viewed as a public health issue rather than solely a matter for the criminal justice system.

A new study by researchers at the University of Warwick and Birmingham also discovered survivors of such abuse are at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

The high mortality rates suffered by women subject to domestic abuse demonstrate the need for public agencies, namely the NHS and police, to recognise the impact of such violence extends far beyond the abusive relationship itself and has troubling long-term consequences.