Erectile dysfunction in men with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: cross-sectional study in a Spanish population.

Nearly one in three women report to have experienced physical, emotional or sexual abuse at the hands of an intimate partner globally (). This alarming statistic underscores the widespread nature of intimate partner violence (IPV) and makes its prevalence among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) particularly disturbing (). AGYW often face unique vulnerabilities, such as limited economic independence, social stigma and unequal power dynamics in relationships, which can increase both their risk of experiencing IPV and the severity of its consequences (; ). IPV can have devastating impacts on young women going through important life phases, which can interfere with their education, lower their access to economic prospects, and cause long-term physical and mental trauma (). The distinct historical, social, gendered and economic circumstances of South Africa make AGYW more at risk of experiencing IPV (). Widespread and sustained gender inequitable attitudes and practices that condone or accept abuse frequently contribute to the persistence of gender inequity (). In addition, due to young women’s relative lack of financial freedom, many may become dependent on others, keeping them in violent relationships (). The issue is exacerbated by limited access to legal, medical and educational institutions, which leaves AGYW with few choices for recovery or escape paths. The stigma associated with IPV worsens these difficulties by discouraging survivors from coming forward or asking for assistance, thereby perpetuating cycles of isolation and silence (; ). Despite these complexities, social support has become a source of hope, an important shield that may minimize the effects of IPV and enable survivors to start over (). Social support includes material, emotional and spiritual help from peers, family, friends, institutions and societal organizations. It can help to reduce feelings of loneliness, increase self-confidence, and make resources more accessible, such as legal guidance, psychological treatment and shelter (; ). Strong social networks can provide an informal safety net in situations when systemic responses to IPV are frequently insufficient, thereby assisting AGYW in overcoming the difficulties of ending abusive relationships, and regaining their feeling of control and liberty.