Management of domestic violence in internal medicine practice

Rev Med Interne. 2026 Apr 30:S0248-8663(26)00536-9. doi: 10.1016/j.revmed.2026.04.008. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Intimate partner violence is a major public health issue, affecting around 10% of women each year in France. Its consequences extend beyond the psychological sphere, directly influencing the control of chronic diseases and the occurrence of psychosomatic disorders frequently encountered in internal medicine. Prolonged exposure to stress and partner coercion perpetuates a vicious cycle between chronic illnesses, diffuse pain, unexplained fatigue, and somatic decompensations. Internists, given the comprehensive nature of their practice and the regular follow-up of vulnerable patients, are often confronted with the challenge of identifying such situations. Screening relies on attentive history-taking, observation of suggestive signs (social isolation, anxiety, medical nomadism), and the use of validated tools such as the WAST or the Violentomètre. Management should be multidisciplinary, integrating psychological, social, and legal support, through referral to specialized structures such as Maisons des Femmes, and through the training of healthcare professionals to improve detection and help break the cycle of violence.

PMID:42067403 | DOI:10.1016/j.revmed.2026.04.008