Clinical Report: The Impact of Intimate Partner Violence on Child Mortality in Children Under 5

Overview

This systematic review and meta-analysis investigates the association between intimate partner violence (IPV) and child mortality in children under 5 years of age. The findings indicate a relationship between maternal exposure to IPV and increased risks of under-5, infant, and neonatal mortality.

Background

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a critical public health issue affecting women's health and well-being, with potential implications for child health outcomes. The association between IPV and adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes has been documented, yet the link between IPV and child mortality remains under-explored. Understanding this relationship is important for maternal and child health.

Data Highlights

No specific numerical data was provided in the source material.

Key Findings

• IPV is associated with increased risks of adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes.
• A systematic review identified a significant association between IPV and under-5 mortality.
• Subsequent studies have produced conflicting results regarding the IPV-U5M association.
• Evidence suggests that IPV may affect child mortality through direct and indirect pathways.
• Methodological quality of studies assessing the IPV-U5M relationship has been inconsistent.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare professionals should be aware of the potential impact of IPV on child health outcomes, particularly in women of reproductive age.

Conclusion

The relationship between IPV and child mortality requires further research to clarify this association.

Related Resources & Content

1. JAMA Network, Intimate Partner Violence Against Women and Mortality Among Children Younger Than 5 Years: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis, 2026
2. United States Preventive Services Taskforce, Recommendation: Intimate Partner Violence and Caregiver Abuse of Older or Vulnerable Adults: Screening, 2025
3. BMC Psychiatry (Springer) — Intimate partner violence and mental disorders among women: an umbrella review
4. Emergency Medicine Journal — Preinjury, injury and post-injury factors leading to death in children and young people who were victims of knife crime in England between 2019 and 2024: a review of the National Child Mortality Database
5. the medicine maker — Doing it for the Kids
6. European Journal of Preventive Cardiology — Socio-contextual considerations in child adversities and cardiovascular disease research
7. Levels and trends in child mortality 2025 - UNICEF DATA
8. Recommendation: Intimate Partner Violence and Caregiver Abuse of Older or Vulnerable Adults: Screening | United States Preventive Services Taskforce
9. Intimate Partner Violence Against Women and Mortality Among Children Younger Than 5 Years: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis | Public Health | JAMA Network Open | JAMA Network