Survey data sets pertinent to the study of intimate partner violence and health

Knowledge regarding intimate partner violence has evolved from a somewhat fragmentary and incomplete understanding of the topic to a more cohesive, inultifaceted body of research. Despite these accomplishments, there are still many critical knowledge gaps about this important problem. In this age of fiscal restraint, using existing information to address research questions is extremely appealing. This article describes some currently available survey data sets that contain information regarding women's experiences of intimate partner violence and health, identifies a number of the strengths and limitations of these data sets, and makes recommendations concerning the types of survey data that should be gathered in the future to help move the field forward.