Whom does the USPSTF recommend screening for intimate partner violence?

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends screening for intimate partner violence specifically for women of childbearing age, defined as ages 15 to 44 years. This recommendation is based on evidence that shows that women within this age range are at a higher risk for experiencing intimate partner violence, which can have significant health consequences for both the women and their children.

Screening in this demographic is important as it allows for the identification of at-risk individuals and provides an opportunity for healthcare providers to offer interventions, support, and resources related to safety and health. The focus on women in this age group highlights the specific vulnerabilities related to reproductive health and the social dynamics that often surround intimate partner relationships.

While the USPSTF recognizes that intimate partner violence can affect individuals of all genders and ages, the specific recommendation focuses on women of childbearing age to target the population that has been identified as most susceptible to violence and its associated health risks.