Learn about ACS Resources on Intimate Partner Violence in October

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, which includes Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) Awareness Month. IPV occurs between romantic partners, can happen to anyone, and can come in various forms. Abuse is not just physical; it presents as mental, financial, and emotional abuse, as well.

This year, the ACS IPV Task Force, along with our surgical association partners—Society of Gynecologic Surgeons, American Academy of Ophthalmology, American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, and American Urogynecologic Society—will continue to inform surgeons of this issue and why surgeons also are vulnerable to IPV.

Throughout October, the ACS will share public service announcements on various IPV-related issues, starting with the following two videos:

Introduction of the 2024 Intimate Partner Violence Awareness Month

Barbara L. Bass, MD, FACS, founding member of the ACS Intimate Partner Violence Task Force and a past-ACS President, introduces this year’s IPV Awareness Month.

Intimate Partner Violence Awareness Month – Dating and Stalking

Ann Rodgers, MD, FACS, a member of the ACS IPV Task Force and professor of surgery at the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, discusses how dating and stalking can turn into violence and how surgeons can spot red flags.

If you or someone you know is experiencing IPV, consider using these resources for support:

• The National Domestic Violence Hotline—Support is available 24/7. Call 1-800-799-7233 or 1-800-799-7233 for TTY. If you are unable to speak safely, you can log onto www.thehotline.org or text START to 88788
• The National Sexual Assault Hotline, 24/7, confidential and free, 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) or via chat
• National Parent Helpline, Monday through Friday, 12:00 pm–9:00 pm CT, 1-855-427-2736
• An interactive guide to safety planning

On October 30, the IPV Task Force will host a webinar on advocacy and legal protections related to IPV. Learn more and register for this free webinar.