May 18 - National day to combat abuse and sexual exploitation of children and adolescents

Since 2000, May 18 was instituted as the national day to combat abuse and sexual exploitation of children and adolescents. In Rio Grande do Sul, between 2015 and 2020, 15.020 cases of sexual violence (sinan- min.da) were reported. Of these, 33.5% against children and 42.6% against adolescents, representing 76.1% of reported cases. Of children and adolescents victims of sexual violence, 82.8% were female and 17.2% of the male; and 71.6% of the cases occurred at the victim's residence.

It is estimated that cases of violence against children and adolescents have accentuated in this new context of social isolation, especially when added to the worsening of the vulnerability of this population, which is often under the physical and psychic dependence of the abuser itself. / p> Spontaneous reports of violence on the part of the victim are infrequent, since abuse remains in secret by well-known intimidation mechanisms. Physical signs of sexual abuse are not always evident. It is necessary to think about the possibility in their lack and observe indirect signs, such as change of behavior and emotional state of the child / teenager. Are signs of alert, although nonspecific, sleep disturbances (nightmares, night terror), appetite disorders, sadness / apathy, isolation, anxiety, aggression, phobias and avoidative behavior (per person or specific place), automation, suicide attempt , housing, delinquency, promiscuity and recurrent somatic complaints without organic cause.

The current restrictions on social coexistence of the pandemic challenge us to redouble efforts. Creches, schools and social conviviality have always been means of identifying situations of child sexual abuse. Thus, more than ever we need to be attentive to signs and think new ways, including virtual channels, to expand and integrate civil society surveillance actions to public networks of protection and assistance to victims of child sexual violence. It is a social responsibility. We need to be the voice of those who have no voice!

Dial 100 - Victims or witnesses of violations of children and adolescents rights, such as physical or sexual violence, can report anonymously by dial 100. Links are free and you do not need to identify

article by Dr. Michelli Osanai of the coast, medical gynecologist / sexologist / couple and family therapist and core coordinator EDUSEX