Citation

Kramer K. J. Forensic Leg. Med. 2013; 20(4): 207-210.

Affiliation

Coffs Harbour Sexual Assault Service, Coffs Harbour, Locked Mail Bag 812, Coffs Harbour, 2450 New South Wales, Australia; Coffs Harbour Rural Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Locked Mail Bag 812, Coffs Harbour, 2450 New South Wales, Australia; Coffs Harbour Women's Health Centre, 74 Victoria St, Coffs Harbour, 2450 New South Wales, Australia. Electronic address: kknospam@tpg.com.au.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2013, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.jflm.2012.07.013

PMID

23622460

Abstract

This paper examines the problems faced by forensic physicians assessing overweight victim/survivors of sexual assault, using sample cases and reviewing the literature. This under-researched area is a minefield of practical difficulties and unanswered questions, with the need for solutions becoming more pressing as overweight becomes more common. Overweight has the potential to alter injury patterns; the way forensic medical examinations are conducted; and injury and specimen interpretation. Pertinent questions include whether the "cushion effect" noted in motor vehicle accidents is relevant to sexual assault and how obesity-related comorbidities affect our ability to age injuries. Practical problems include positioning the client safely, obtaining clear views of areas of interest, and taking high-quality specimens. Although overweight victims appear to be uncommon in sexual assault services, as the obesity epidemic progresses clinicians will need to address these issues.

Language: en