Impact of Child Abuse on Healthcare and Economy: A Global Perspective and Preventive Strategies

Abstract

This study delves into global issues of child abuse, focusing on its profound impact on healthcare and economy. A cross-sectional country analysis was conducted using a mixed-methods, it includes quantitative analysis of reported cases of child abuse, economic burden, and healthcare issues by utilizing data from U.S.A., Europe, Pakistan, and India as well as qualitative insights from interviews of focus groups. The result indicate a notable relationship between child abuse cases and economic burden, with an anticipated increase in the future. The vulnerability of children necessitates a robust defense of their rights to safeguard them from psychological and physical risks. This research aims to examine the health and economic repercussions of child abuse in various countries, differentiating between developed (America, Europe) and developing (Pakistan, India) regions. Findings of this study reveal a higher ubiquity of child abuse in Europe and U.S.A., with 18 million cases in US and an economic burden of US$592 million, and in Europe, a burden of US$124 billion. In Pakistan and India, there were 7,500 and 54,359 reported cases, with economic burdens of US$7.5 billion and US$209.3 billion, respectively. Unreported cases may contribute to fluctuations in these numerical stats. Parents play a crucial role in the prevalence of child abuse, with education and awareness serving as mitigating factors. Child abuse has profound psychological, health, and economic repercussions for both individuals and society. Concrete measures, including strict policies and severe penalties for offenders, are essential to prevent and address this calamity globally. Each country should take individual responsibility in formulating and implementing stringent policies against child abuse.