Rape survivors and the provision of HIV post-exposure prophylaxis
Date
2007-08
Authors
Killian, S.
Suliman, S.
Fakier, N.
Seedat, S.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Health and Medical Publishing Group (HMPG)
Abstract
To the Editor: Rape and HIV/AIDS are two scourges of
epidemic proportion in South Africa, which is known for
high levels of sexual violence and one of the fastest-growing
HIV epidemics in the world. While the link between rape
and long-term physical and mental health problems is well
established, the vast majority of rapes go unreported and
only a small proportion of women attend health care services
after rape, with many believing that their actions will not
lead to punishment for the perpetrator. Another factor that
may worsen matters even further is the latest version of the
original bill on sexual offences (Criminal Law (Sexual Offences)
Amendment Bill) passed in 2003. The latest version of the Bill
states that the provision of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP)
is dependent on the ‘victim’ laying a charge. This is likely to
have a major negative impact on rape survivors receiving PEP
within 72 hours and may impede the ability of medical and
police officials to obtain medical evidence that is crucial for the
successful prosecution of the perpetrator.
Description
Letter
The original publication is available at http://www.samj.org.za
The original publication is available at http://www.samj.org.za
Keywords
Rape victims -- Medical care -- South Africa, HIV infections -- South Africa -- Prevention, Post-exposure prophylaxis
Citation
Killian, S., Suliman, S., Fakier, N. & Seedat, S. 2007. Rape survivors and the provision of HIV post-exposure prophylaxis. South African Medical Journal, 97(8):585-586.