Warning: This article discusses sexual harm.
Some research led by the University of Otago has found a link between sexual harm and adult breathing issues.
It shows a history of rape is associated with dysfunctional breathing in both men and women, and with late-onset asthma in women.
University of Otago respiratory specialist Professor Bob Hancox, who co-led the research with sexual health specialist Dr Jane Morgan, says they need to investigate whether other forms of sexual, physical, or psychological trauma are also associated with breathing dysfunction.
"If this is a true cause-and-effect association, these analyses indicate that 23 percent of all asthma among women at 38 years of age, or nearly a third of adult-onset asthma could be attributed to rape."
The researchers are now calling for doctors to start linking sexual trauma to respiratory problems with patients.
Hancox said health professionals should consider whether dysfunctional breathing or late-onset asthma patients would be helped by psychological counselling or other forms of therapy.
"Findings indicate that dysfunctional breathing may be a consequence of severe psychological trauma and are consistent with case reports of sexual abuse in patients with other patterns of breathing difficulty."
The research examined 1037 people born in Dunedin in 1972 and 1974, who were followed throughout their lives. Nearly 20 percent of the women examined and four percent of the men had reported being raped.
Findings from the study were published in the European Respiratory Journal.
If you have witnessed or experienced sexual harassment or assault and would like to speak to someone, you could call the HELP support service.
- Auckland: (09) 623 1700 or visit helpauckland.org.nz
- Wellington: (04) 801 6655 or visit wellingtonhelp.org.nz
