Abuse of women is a public health problem. All female patients over the age of 14 should be part of a routine screening program

Abuse does not appear to be restricted to a specific sociodemographic group of women, nor to a specific period in their lives. Screening for domestic violence provides an opportunity not only to disclose family abuse but also to take action to improve the safety and health of these women. All routine health care of women should incorporate direct questions about abuse, psychological as well as physical and sexual. Staff should be trained in how to integrate routine enquiries about abuse into their daily practice.