Intimate Partner Violence Against Women and Mortality Among Children Younger Than 5 Years: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
JAMA Netw OpenSep 1, 2026 (epub)
Bereket Kefale, Aditi Roy, Daniel Gashaneh Belay et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the association between intimate partner violence (IPV) against women and mortality among children under 5 years. Analyzing 28 studies with 684,065 participants, the results indicated that IPV is linked to increased odds of under-5 mortality (OR, 1.10), infant mortality (OR, 1.32), and neonatal mortality (OR, 1.36).
Key findings
- IPV was associated with higher odds of under-5 mortality (OR, 1.10; 95% CI, 1.05-1.16).
- Infant mortality was higher with IPV (OR, 1.32; 95% CI, 1.11-1.57).
- Neonatal mortality showed increased odds with IPV (OR, 1.36; 95% CI, 1.19-1.55).
- Physical IPV was linked to higher odds of infant mortality (OR, 1.20; 95% CI, 1.01-1.44).
Why it matters
The findings highlight the significant impact of intimate partner violence on child mortality, underscoring the need for integrated approaches in child health strategies that address IPV as a critical public health issue.