Know the Facts
About Child Sexual Abuse
The trauma of abuse can be immediate and profound, with lasting consequences that extend into adulthood. Staying informed and proactive is key to protecting our children and ensuring they receive the care and understanding they need to heal and grow.
Critical Facts About Child Sexual Abuse
Know the
Numbers
1 in 3 girls and 1 in 6 boys experience sexual abuse before 18." (Canadian Centre for Child Protection)
​
80% of child sexual abuse survivors in Canada are female." (Statistics Canada)
​
​79% of child sexual abuse survivors never disclose their abuse during childhood, with many only coming forward in adulthood.
(CDC, National Sexual Violence Resource Center)
A child is less likely to be sexually abused by a stranger.
85-90% of abusers are known to the victim." (Public Health Agency of Canada)
​
Around 60-70% of child sexual abuse cases involve a family member as the perpetrator. (Public Health Agency of Canada, Canadian Centre for Child Protection)
Sexual abuse often occurs before the child reaches puberty.
40-50% of cases start before age 12." (Canadian Centre for Justice Statistics)
Child Sexual Abuse Content Circulated Online for Life
1 in 5 victims of child sexual abuse have images or videos of their abuse shared online, where they can remain indefinitely. (Canadian Centre for Child Protection)
All children are at risk of sexual abuse, though some populations experience an increased risk.
Children with disabilities are three times more likely to be victims of sexual abuse. (UNICEF Canada)
Child Sexual Abuse and Child Trafficking
87% of youth who are trafficked for sex have experienced sexual abuse prior to being trafficked.(Canadian Centre to End Human Trafficking)
Support Survivors.
Survivors of child sexual abuse can be affected by the trauma for years. Trauma can be expressed in many different ways and often causes survivors to feel broken, and alone. The stigma surrounding sexual abuse may make survivors feel they cannot reach out for help which internalizes their isolation and shame.​
Survivors May Suffer From Impacts on Their:
PHYSICAL HEALTH
Up to 40% of child sexual abuse survivors report chronic physical health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, and gastrointestinal disorders as a result of their trauma. (Public Health Agency of Canada)
​
Women survivors of child sexual abuse are twice as likely to suffer from chronic pain conditions, including fibromyalgia and migraines, compared to those without abuse history. (Canadian Women's Foundation)
MENTAL HEALTH
Survivors of child sexual abuse are 10 times more likely to attempt suicide compared to those who have not experienced abuse. (Canadian Mental Health Association)
​
Up to 80% of women survivors of child sexual abuse experience long-term mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD. (Public Health Agency of Canada).
​
Survivors of child sexual abuse in Canada are 3-4 times more likely to develop substance use disorders, including alcohol and drug addiction, compared to those who have not experienced abuse. (Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction)
ECONOMIC STABILITY
Women survivors of child sexual abuse are twice as likely to experience unemployment or underemployment due to the long-term psychological and physical effects of the abuse. (Canadian Women's Foundation)
​
​Survivors of child sexual abuse face a 30% higher likelihood of living in poverty, often due to ongoing mental health issues and lower educational attainment linked to trauma. (Public Health Agency of Canada)
There is Hope
Survivors of child sexual abuse who receive trauma-informed care report a 40-60% improvement in overall emotional well-being, resilience, and coping skills, helping them rebuild their lives beyond just managing PTSD. (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration - SAMHSA)