Human Trafficking: Physical Health Consequences

Physical and medical health problems of trafficked persons can range from minor to severe. Unfortunately, they can also lead to death. Many injuries, illnesses and infections including hepatitis, HIV and AIDS are not uncommon. Some conditions are treatable, while others will be life-long and debilitating. Pre-existing physical or medical conditions can be worsened by abuse, neglect, violence, stress, deprivation and terror. Many trafficked persons will unfortunately experience co-occurring conditions.

Health Risks Associated with Trafficking

The person being trafficked from country to country or within a single nation, such as the United States, can experience many health risks. These people live in questionable environments and are exposed to many stressors including constant movement, squalid living environments, poor nutrition and little to no medical attention. Therefore, they are at a very high risk of developing multiple health problems due to:

• Sexually transmitted diseases
• Abortion and termination of pregnancy
• Substance addiction, misuse or abuse
• Malnourishment and starvation
• Economic or financial exploitation
• Occupational hazards
• Social restriction, manipulation and emotional abuse
• Physical abuse and neglect
• Rape and sexual assault
• Legal insecurity and vulnerability

It is no wonder that so many trafficked persons suffer from physical and medical problems, and sometimes for the rest of their lives. Broken bones, cuts, burns and contusions can be the result of physical abuse and assault. Persons forced into prostitution can experience sexually transmitted diseases, unwanted pregnancy, and poor reproductive health.

Forcing drugs and alcohol onto victims is a common method of controlling them. Potential outcomes include dependency, addiction and overdose as well as a myriad of psychological problems associated with substance use and abuse. Depression and anxiety are common outcomes, as are paranoia, self-harm and suicide.

Physical and medical problems associated with economic and financial exploitation may be caused by poor hygiene, insufficient food and hydration, poor climate control, and little to no access to health care and medical treatment. Those trafficked persons working in hazardous conditions may be exposed to physical injury, accidents, bacterial infections, dehydration, cuts and burns, and over-exposure to hot or cold weather conditions.

Post-Trafficking Symptoms

Once the trafficked person finds freedom – if they are so lucky to do so – their problems are not over. Post-trafficking symptoms last for years or even a lifetime. Some of the most common symptoms include frequent headaches, memory loss, fatigue and dizziness. Sexually transmitted diseases may linger long after the person is free. Back and abdominal pain, dental problems and weight loss may continue to be problematic for years.

Appetite and sleep disturbances are commonly experienced long after the trafficking ends. Some people will develop moderate to severe eating and sleeping disorders. Infections developed during years of trafficking can lead to more severe conditions. Gastrointestinal infections, skin infections, cancers, respiratory problems, and asbestos contamination are not uncommon.

Many years after the person is free from the horrors of human trafficking, the loss of their limbs may serve as a constant reminder of their lives as slaves. Concussions from years ago may result in cognitive problems today and in the future. Previous injuries experienced as a captive can lead to a lifetime of disabilities.

Final Words

Human trafficking impacts hundreds of thousands of people around the world and in the United States. While being trafficked, these victims experience conditions and risks that may negatively affect their health and well-being. The suffering not only takes place during years of active trafficking, but long afterwards. What a sad and frightening phenomenon for so many people to experience. What can you do to help people in your community heal from this tragic experience?

More About Human Trafficking:

Human Trafficking 101
Human Trafficking: Support and Care
Human Trafficking & Mental Health