SynthesisBMC public health2026
Prevalence and associated factors of female-perpetrated intimate partner violence against men in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Synthesis in BMC public health, 2026. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Not yet cited in PubMed.
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Abstract
backgroundIntimate partner violence (IPV) is a critical public health issue traditionally recognized as primarily affecting women; however, men are also victims of IPV, experiencing various forms of violence from their female intimate partners. In Africa, where patriarchal norms prevail, research on IPV against men remains limited and fragmented. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of IPV against men across African countries and identify associated risk factors.
methodsA comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple databases including PubMed, Epistemonikos, Cochrane Library, Africa Index Medicus, and African Journals Online through November 5, 2025. Cross-sectional studies reporting on IPV prevalence and associated factors among men in Africa were included. Data extraction and quality assessment followed standardized protocols, and pooled prevalence was estimated using a random-effects meta-analysis with Stata version 17. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I² statistic, and publication bias was evaluated via funnel plots and Egger’s test.
resultsSixteen studies encompassing 17,939 men from six African countries met the inclusion criteria. The pooled prevalence of IPV against men was 40.49% (95% CI: 31.53%–49.44%), with psychological violence being the most prevalent subtype. Partner controlling behavior (OR = 5.02, 95% CI: 3.35–7.53), partner alcohol use (OR = 1.94, 95% CI: 1.61–2.34), history of IPV perpetration (OR = 4.21, 95% CI: 2.37–7.48), exposure to parental IPV in childhood (OR = 1.64, 95% CI: 1.34–1.98), marital separation (OR = 2.01, 95% CI: 1.21–3.33), and having one wife (OR = 0.50, 95% CI: 0.36–0.68) were significantly associated with increased odds of IPV victimization.
conclusionsNearly two out of five men in Africa experience IPV, a considerably high prevalence that underscores this overlooked public health concern. Partner controlling behavior emerges as a strong predictor of IPV against men, highlighting the need for gender-inclusive prevention strategies that address controlling dynamics within relationships. These findings advocate for expanded IPV screening, tailored interventions, and policies that promote awareness and support for male victims across diverse African contexts.
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