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Rape trauma linked to respiratory problems, Otago study finds

Image: NIAID [CC BY 2.0], via Flickr

Dysfunctional breathing ‘may be a consequence of severe psychological trauma’

The trauma of sexual assault can cause long-lasting respiratory problems, including hyperventilation syndrome and adult-onset asthma, according to a study by the University of Otago.

A team led by respiratory epidemiologist Bob Hancox and sexual health specialist Jane Morgan from the Waikato District Health Board found that the trauma of rape was associated with dysfunctional breathing problems for both men and women.

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