Gender Differences in Brain Injury Pathology: Intimate Partner Violence vs. Contact Sports

A comprehensive brain autopsy study conducted on women who experienced intimate partner violence revealed significant vascular and white matter damage, but no signs of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) commonly found in male contact sports athletes. The study also found increased medical comorbidities, such as cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, highlighting the need for a broader understanding of the consequences of partner violence on brain health. The research emphasizes the importance of specialized care for survivors of intimate partner violence.