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. 2001 Mar;91(3):441–445. doi: 10.2105/ajph.91.3.441

Prevalence and predictors of physical partner abuse among Mexican American women.

E A Lown 1, W A Vega 1
PMCID: PMC1446622  PMID: 11236411

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: This study determined the lifetime prevalence of physical abuse by a current partner among women of Mexican origin and assessed factors associated with abuse. METHODS: Data are for a subsample of 1155 women with current partners from a larger population-based cross-sectional survey of US residents of Mexican origin. RESULTS: The self-reported prevalence of physical abuse by a current partner was 10.7%. In multivariate analysis, factors associated with physical abuse included US birthplace (odds ratio = 2.1; 95% confidence interval = 1.24, 3.56), young age, urban residence, and having 4 or more children. Social support and regular church attendance were protective. CONCLUSIONS: The self-reported prevalence of physical abuse among Mexican American women is high. US birth is associated with increased risk of abuse. Community-based prevention efforts should be aimed at this population.

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Selected References

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