Mapping substance use among sexual violence victims in Ghent
Characteristics of (unwanted) Use of Alcohol and Illicit Substances Among Patients Reporting After Sexual Violence in Ghent: a Mono-centric Prospective Observational Study
This study looks at how often drugs or alcohol are used by victims of sexual violence in Ghent to see if it plays a role in their assault.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 200 (estimated) |
| Ages | 16 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University Hospital, Ghent Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Gent) |
| Trial ID | NCT06188780 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to define the characteristics and toxicological aspects of patients who report to the Care Centre after experiencing sexual violence, specifically focusing on drug-facilitated sexual assault (DFSA). It will investigate both voluntary and involuntary use of alcohol and illicit substances among these victims. Data will be collected through nurse-led questionnaires and toxicological analyses of blood and urine samples over a two-year period. The goal is to estimate the incidence of sexual assault incidents where victims were incapacitated by substance use.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 16 and older who report to the Care Centre after experiencing sexual violence within five days of the incident.
Not a fit: Patients who do not report within five days or are unable to undergo a forensic examination will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide critical data to improve understanding and prevention of drug-facilitated sexual assaults.
How similar studies have performed: While there is limited data specific to Belgium, similar studies in other regions have highlighted the prevalence of drug-facilitated sexual assaults, indicating a need for this type of research.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * All patients (16+) who registered at the Care Center after Sexual Violence (=ZSG) in Ghent from 01/04/2023 until. 31/03/2025 and who were victims of sexual violence are eligible for inclusion in this study. Exclusion Criteria: * Reporting longer than 5 days after the sexual assault. * Unable to undergo a forensic examination under the supervision of a forensic nurse due to, for example, collapse of consciousness or failure to give consent to do so. * Not declaring proficiency in the language in which informed consent is offered (Dutch/English) * Not agreeing to the informed consent. * Not agreeing to collection and/or analysis of blood and urine.
Where this trial is running
Gent
- ZSG UZ Gent — Gent, Belgium (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Cathelijne Lyphout, MSc
- Email: cathelijne.lyphout@uzgent.be
- Phone: 003293321616
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.