The controversy on screening for intimate partner violence: a question of semantics?
In this paper, we review the basis of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force's recommendations related to routine screening for intimate partner violence (IPV), focus on two of the arguments of those who have rejected these recommendations, and based on these, suggest that this controversy has occurred, in part, as a result of different interpretations of the meaning of "screening." We differentiate screening from situations in which asking about IPV is essential for differential diagnosis, that is, exploring exposure to IPV when there are signs and symptoms that might result from this exposure. Finally, we describe the randomized, controlled trial CDC is conducting to contribute to the evidence the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force requries to make its recommendations.
Klevens
Joanne
J
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA. jklevens@cdc.gov
Saltzman
Linda E
LE
D026683:Advisory Committees; D002487:Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U.S.; D000075202:Contraindications; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D017579:Domestic Violence; D006801:Humans; D008403:Mass Screening / Q000592:standards / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D010808:Physical Examination; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D012660:Semantics; D009626:Terminology as Topic; D014481:United States