Type of publication:
Conference abstract
Author(s):
*Andrew O.; Jones L.; *Farley A.;
Citation:
Archives of Disease in Childhood. Conference: Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health Conference, RCPCH 2024. Birmingham United Kingdom. 109(Supplement 1) (pp A280), 2024. Date of Publication: August 2024.
Abstract:
Objectives Despite the ongoing efforts to eradicate female genital mutilation (FGM), the shift towards medicalised FGM is concerning. It is advocated that eliminating medicalised FGM is an important component in the holistic approach to end FGM. This review therefore aimed to systematically identify literatures to determine the global prevalence of medicalised FGM. Methods Studies included were cross-sectional studies that reported the prevalence of FGM in a female population of any age and the performer of the FGM to be a health care professional (HCP). Medline, Embase, PsycINFO, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature and a range of grey sources were searched between March and April 2020. In duplicates, eligible papers were screened, quality assessed using JBI tool and data extracted using a proforma. The main outcome extracted was the prevalence of medicalised FGM and this was defined as FGM performed by any category of HCP irrespective of the location. A meta-analysis using a random- effect model was carried out to synthesise the global prevalence of medicalised FGM. Subgroup analysis by country's level of income, study setting, continent and study date was undertaken to investigate heterogeneity (I2). Results Out of 4875 records obtained after a systematic search, 21 papers and one piece of grey literature were included, all describing medicalised FGM in 26 countries. Most of the studies (93.3%) were conducted in low and lowmiddle income countries. Overall, the global prevalence of medicalised FGM was 13% (95% confidence interval (CI) 7%-21%, I2 = 100%). The high heterogeneity observed was explored using subgroup analysis; however, there was little change in I2 value. Conclusion Amidst the high heterogeneity, this research highlights that the prevalence of medicalised FGM worldwide can be as high as 21% (~1 in 5 survivors). Further research is required to investigate the various context where the prevalence of medicalised FGM is high. Specific nationally representative data across several settings are necessary in all regions to ensure surveillance of the problem. There is need for interventions to prevent HCP from cutting women and girls thereby strengthening the path to eradicate FGM.
