Journal of Aggression, Maltreatment & Trauma

Volume 20, Issue 4, 2011

Functional Somatic Syndromes and Childhood Physical Abuse in Women: Data From a Representative Community-Based Sample

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DOI:: 10.1080/10926771.2011.566035

Esme Fuller-Thomson^a^*, Joanne Sulman^b, Sarah Brennenstuhl^c & Moeza Merchant^d
pages 445-469
Available online: 11 May 2011

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Abstract

This study investigated whether childhood physical abuse was associated with functional somatic syndromes (FSS) in women while controlling for age, race, and four clusters of potentially confounding factors: (a) Other childhood adversities, (b) adult health behaviors, (c) socioeconomic status and stressors, and (d) mental health. A regional subsample of the 2005 Canadian Community Health Survey of 7,342 women was used. Women reported whether they had been diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), fibromyalgia (Fm), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or multiple chemical sensitivities (MCS). Fully 749 reported having been physically abused by someone close to them during their youth. When controlling for potentially confounding factors, childhood physical abuse was significantly associated with CFS (OR = 2.11; 95% CI = 1.22, 3.65), Fm (OR = 1.65; 95% CI = 1.08, 2.52), and MCS (OR = 2.82; 95% = CI 1.90, 4.17). Clinicians using reattribution and stepped care approaches in the management of FSS should assess for a history of abuse.