The association between exposure to domestic abuse in women and the development of syndromes indicating central nervous system sensitization: A retrospective cohort study using UK primary care records

Background Domestic abuse is a global public health issue. The association between the development of central sensitivity syndromes (CSS) and previous exposure to domestic has been poorly understood particularly within European populations. Methods A retrospective cohort study using ‘The Health Improvement Network,’ (UK primary care medical records) 1st January 1995–31st December 2018. 22,604 adult women exposed were age matched 44,671 unexposed women. average at entry was 36 years median follow-up 2.5 years. outcomes interest variety which demonstrate nervous system sensitization. Fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome temporomandibular joint disorder have reported previously. Outcomes adjusted for presence mental ill health. Results During period, experienced an increased risk developing lower back pain (adjusted incidence rate ratio [aIRR] 2.28; 95% CI 1.85–2.80), headaches (aIRR 3.15; 1.07–9.23), irritable bowel 1.41; 1.25–1.60) restless legs 1.89; 1.44–2.48). However, no positive seen with interstitial cystitis 0.52; 0.14–1.93), vulvodynia 0.42; 0.14–1.25) myofascial 1.01; 0.28–3.61). Conclusion This demonstrates need consider past history in patients presenting CSS; also preventative approaches mitigating CSS following abuse. Significance issue, relationship complex syndromes. Using large UK database, we able conduct first explore this further. We found strong morbidity burden associated abuse, suggesting urgent intervention not only prevent but negative consequences.