Fear of the perpetrator: a major reason why sexual assault victims delayed presenting at hospital

Objective To identify the reasons for presentation of sexual assault more than 72h after the incidents at Newcastle Hospital, South Africa. Methods A retrospective analysis of 534 medical records of victims seen between 2005 and 2009 at the hospital's sexual assault service centre. Results Overall, 219 (41%) of the victims presented at the hospital more than 72h after the alleged sexual assault, mainly for fear of the perpetrator (37.4%). Females constituted 87%, and rape with vaginal penetration was the most common form of sexual assault reported (74%). Tests of significance showed a positive association between fear of the perpetrator and delayed presentation at hospital. Age under 9years and being scared of what relatives would say about alleged sexual assault were also associated with delayed presentation. Conclusions Attention needs to be focused on educating society on the importance of reporting sexual assault incidents promptly in order for victims to benefit from appropriate medical treatment.