This year, the world was shocked by the tragic death of 33-year-old Rebecca Cheptegei, who had just completed the women’s marathon at the Olympics in Paris. She succumbed to her injuries in a Kenyan hospital after her partner’s brutal attack left 80 percent of her body burned. This horrific incident is not isolated; it is part of a disturbing global pattern of gender-based violence (GBV).
According to the World Bank, 35 percent of women worldwide have experienced intimate partner violence, encompassing physical, sexual, and non-partner sexual assault. Globally, 7 percent of women report having been sexually assaulted by someone other than a partner, and up to 38 percent of female homicides are committed by intimate partners. UN Women estimates that 1 in 7 women aged 15-49 have faced physical or sexual abuse by an intimate partner in the past year. In 2020 alone, 81,000 women and girls were killed worldwide, with 47,000 of these deaths (58 percent) perpetrated by intimate partners or family members. Nearly one-third of women globally, or 736 million, have experienced some form of intimate partner violence or non-partner sexual violence in their lifetimes.
GBV is a pervasive issue that transcends borders, affecting millions of individuals. It manifests in various forms, including emotional, psychological, sexual, and physical abuse. The impact of GBV is profound, undermining the health, dignity, security, and autonomy of its victims.
As a female Ghanaian, I am acutely aware of the risks and challenges that women face in our society. The fear of becoming a victim of GBV is a constant shadow that looms over many women, including myself. This personal connection to the issue fuels my passion and commitment to making a difference. As a medical student and future plastic surgeon, I see my role as not only providing medical care but also advocating for the rights and well-being of GBV survivors. By combining medical expertise with a deep understanding of the socio-cultural context, I aim to offer holistic care that addresses both the physical and psychological scars of violence.
In recent years, plastic and reconstructive surgery has made significant strides, offering new and improved techniques to help restore what violence has taken away. For survivors of GBV, plastic surgery can be a crucial part of their rehabilitation, helping to heal both physical and psychological wounds. Procedures such as scar revision, rhinoplasty, otoplasty, breast reconstruction, genital reconstruction, facial reconstruction, hand surgery, burn repair, abdominoplasty, and vaginoplasty can significantly improve the quality of life and self-esteem of survivors.
In Africa and Ghana, targeted solutions are essential to address the needs of GBV survivors. Establishing specialized centers for plastic and reconstructive surgery dedicated to GBV victims can provide comprehensive care, including medical, psychological, and legal support. Collaboration with international organizations and local NGOs can help bridge the gap in services and ensure that survivors receive the care they need. For instance, the Victims of Domestic Violence Plastic Surgery Foundation in the USA offers a comprehensive reconstructive approach to repair injuries from abusive relationships. Similarly, the Acid Survivors Foundation in Bangladesh provides holistic burn care services, including plastic surgery, psychological care, legal assistance, and financial support for economic rehabilitation.
Opponents of expanding plastic surgery services for GBV survivors might argue that the focus should be on preventing violence rather than treating its aftermath. While prevention is undoubtedly crucial, it is equally important to address the needs of those who have already suffered. Providing reconstructive surgery can help survivors reclaim their bodies and lives, offering them a sense of control and dignity. Additionally, critics might contend that resources should be allocated to more immediate needs, such as shelter and legal aid. However, comprehensive care for GBV survivors should encompass all aspects of recovery, including physical reconstruction, to ensure holistic healing.
Taking examples from Colombia, the recent London Met police GBV cases, and South Africa’s feminicide crisis, we see the multifaceted nature of GBV and the need for a comprehensive approach. In Colombia, during the National Strike in 2021, women faced sexual violence and other forms of GBV at the hands of the National Police. This highlights the need for psychological care and legal assistance to ensure justice and non-repetition of such abuses. The London Met police has implemented a robust action plan to tackle sexism and misogyny within its ranks, emphasizing the importance of cultural reform and accountability. This approach can serve as a model for other institutions to create safer environments for women. In South Africa, the femicide crisis persists, with intimate partner femicides accounting for a significant portion of female homicides. The South African Medical Research Council’s report underscores the need for a multi-sectoral approach, including improved justice system responses and economic rehabilitation for survivors.
In conclusion, gender-based violence is a global crisis that demands urgent attention and action. Plastic and reconstructive surgery can play a vital role in helping survivors heal and rebuild their lives. By establishing specialized centers and fostering collaboration among stakeholders, we can create a supportive environment for GBV survivors in Africa and Ghana. It is imperative to address both prevention and treatment to combat this pervasive issue effectively. Let us work together to provide the necessary resources and support for survivors, ensuring they receive the comprehensive care they deserve.
Shirley Sarah Dadson is a medical student in Ghana.
