Men with disabilities at high risk of sexual assault

Recent research suggests that men with disabilities may require similar levels of protection against sexual assault as women.

Scientists from University of Massachusetts found that nearly 14 percent of men with disabilities who were surveyed reported a lifetime of sexual abuse, compared to 3.7 percent of healthy men.

"The most notable finding is that the prevalence of lifetime sexual violence, completed rape and attempted rape against men with disabilities was comparable to that against women without disabilities," said researcher Monika Mitra, Ph.D.

The scientist added that last year's rates of sexual abuse against men with disabilities exceeded that of women without disabilities.

Participants were asked if anyone had ever attempted to have sex with them without their consent, or if they had ever been touched inappropriately despite their objections. This included men with physical, mental or emotional problems, as well as those who required special devices because of an impairment.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that victims of sexual assault be tested for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) so that they can be treated immediately for an infection.