Rising FGM Cases in Devon and England: Challenges and Initiatives

Strategic Insights -

New figures from NHS services in Devon show a significant number of female genital mutilation (FGM) victims, with almost a dozen cases reported this year alone. The FGM procedure, which involves cutting, injuring, or changing the female genitals without medical reason, is considered child abuse and is illegal in the UK. Charity organizations are sounding the alarm, warning that many victims are only identified during pregnancy, and calling for improved support and prevention efforts.

Key Takeaways:

  • NHS England figures show around 10 patients with FGM injuries were seen by healthcare providers in the NHS Devon Integrated Care Board area between January and March this year, with all of them being new patients.
  • Across England, some 2,245 FGM victims were seen by healthcare providers in the three months to March, a 7% increase from 2,090 during the same period the previous year.
  • The vast majority of victims (86%) stated that the FGM procedure took place when they were under 10 years old.
  • The procedure is most commonly carried out in Africa (82%), followed by Asia (15%), and the UK (2%).
  • FGM charity organizations warn that the current legislation implies victims under 18 cannot access support services unless their procedure is reported to the police, and that many GPs fail to report FGM data to protect their patients and avoid being seen as culturally insensitive.
  • There is a call for a national survey on FGM to identify victims earlier and provide better support, as well as a similar approach to cervical cancer screening to provide preventative health tests for all women.

Statistics:

  • 12 FGM victims were seen by NHS services in Devon this year.
  • 2,245 FGM victims were seen by healthcare providers in England in the three months to March, a 7% increase from 2,090.
  • Of those who stated their age at the time of FGM, 86% were under 10 years old.
  • 82% of FGM procedures took place in Africa.
  • 15% took place in Asia.
  • 2% took place in the UK.
  • 970 new patients with FGM injuries were seen by healthcare providers in England in the three months to March, a 3% increase from 945 the previous year.

Sources:

  • NHS England figures
  • The Vavengers anti-FGM charity
  • FORWARD, the Foundation for Women's Health Research and Development
  • Government spokesperson
  • (https://www.tavistock-today.co.uk/topic/nhs)
  • (https://www.tavistock-today.co.uk/topic/devon)
  • (https://www.tavistock-today.co.uk/topic/africa)