Thousands of people suffer from domestic abuse

A British Medical Association report warns domestic abuse is on the increase, and needs urgent attention.

The report concludes that many cases of domestic abuse still go unreported, and that some victims do not realise that violence against them is a crime.

It calls for all health professionals to be trained in how to deal with the problem.

In eight out of ten cases women are the victims of domestic abuse.

The report states that the problem is prevalent in all parts of society.

It estimates that dealing with domestic abuse costs services in England and Wales around �3.1bn a year.

KEY FINDINGS Around 750,000 children a year witness domestic abuse Around 30% of domestic abuse begins during pregnancy Directly causes fractures, burns, depression, post traumatic stress disorders, arthritis, headaches and seizures Can trigger stomach ulcers, heart disease and raised blood pressure

Dr Vivienne Nathanson, head of the BMA Science and Ethics, said: "The figures we provide in this report are shocking, but perhaps more alarming is that they are likely to be grossly underestimated.

"Domestic abuse is an unspoken scar on our society and many individuals never report that they are victims."

Dr Nathanson said doctors and other health professionals were well placed to help victims and their families.

She said if domestic abuse was suspected, it was important for health professionals to help their patients to discuss their problems.

She said it was also important to remember that men could be affected too - and that they were less likely to seek help.

TYPES OF DOMESTIC ABUSE Physical Sexual Psychological Financial

The report also highlights the need for health professionals to look out for domestic abuse in minority groups, where it might be even more of a hidden problem.

The BMA is calling for the government to promote a "zero-tolerance" attitude to domestic abuse.

It also wants domestic abuse education programmes to be implemented in all primary and secondary schools.

A spokeswoman for the Department of Health said: "Domestic violence is unacceptable and existing attitudes and perceptions need to be challenged.

"We recognise that healthcare professionals are uniquely placed to ensure that help and information is made available as early as possible.

"All clinicians, in their professional roles, are obliged to provide a duty of care in exercising that role."