Should medical students be taught about rape? A survey of UK medical schools

Rape and other serious sexual assaults are common and result in long-term morbidity. Increasing numbers are reported but conviction rates are low. Victims of sexual assault present to a wide range of healthcare settings. Good immediate medical care and evidence collection are important in engaging victims with the criminal justice system, avoiding the loss of crucial evidence and minimising long-term morbidity. Of 21 UK medical schools surveyed, only eight provided teaching about sexual assault and ten provided other forensic teaching. Sixteen schools provided guidance about personal safety. As rape is so common and traumatic, medical schools should seriously consider providing teaching about this area.