High Ambient Temperature’s Influence on IPV Prevalence

June 30, 2023

A recent study published in JAMA Psychiatry sheds light on the correlation between temperature and intimate partner violence (IPV) against women. Conducted by an international team of researchers from China, Pakistan, Australia, Germany, Tanzania, the United Kingdom, and the United States, the study highlights the alarming increase in IPV cases as temperatures rise across the Indian subcontinent.

Prevalence of Violence

Among the types of violence examined in the study, physical violence was found to have the highest prevalence, followed by emotional and sexual violence. These findings underscore the gravity of the issue and its impact on the well-being of women.

Temperature and IPV Prevalence

The study revealed a significant association between high ambient temperature and the risk of IPV against women. Each 1 °C increase in the annual mean temperature was associated with a mean increase in IPV prevalence of 4.49%. This alarming correlation emphasizes the need to address this issue urgently.

Projected Increases and Regional Variations

Projections indicate that IPV prevalence is expected to rise in the coming decades. By the end of the 21st century, India is projected to experience the highest increase in IPV prevalence at 23.5%, followed by Nepal at 14.8% and Pakistan at 5.9%. These projections highlight the need for targeted interventions to prevent and address IPV in these countries.

Data Collection and Age Range

Data for the study were collected from October 1, 2010, to April 30, 2018. The study included 194,871 girls and women aged 15-49 from India, Pakistan, and Nepal. This comprehensive data collection allowed for a robust analysis of the prevalence of IPV in the region.

Temperature Range during Data Collection

During the data collection period, the annual temperature ranges were mostly between 20°C and 30°C. This temperature range provides insight into the climatic conditions under which the study findings were obtained.

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