Sextortion, a severe form of gender-based violence where sexual favors are coerced in exchange for health-care services, is a "grave public health concern," particularly in low- and middle-income countries, according to a recent review in The Lancet Global Health.

Evidence on sexual corruption within the health sector is limited and sporadically studied, the review noted. However, its prevalence and the higher vulnerability of women in accessing health services indicate unique risks. While sextortion can affect any gender, it disproportionately impacts women, as well as men, boys, girls, and LGBTQ+ communities.

Transparency International's Global Corruption Barometer 2019 data showed that one in five respondents in Latin America and the Middle East and North Africa had experienced or knew someone who had experienced sexual corruption in health services. In Nigeria, a 2020 UN survey found that 69% of respondents believed public officials frequently requested sexual favors for preferential treatment. In Zimbabwe, 57% of women reported having to offer sexual favors to access medical care, get a job, or enroll their children in school.

Addressing sexual corruption requires robust legal frameworks. The International Bar Association found that anti-corruption laws in eight jurisdictions do not address sexual favors, and sexual offense laws do not consider corruption, potentially leaving sextortion unprosecuted.

Investigators called for collaborative efforts from governments, health-care workers, human rights bodies, and the legal community to combat this corruption and protect vulnerable populations.

The authors declared no competing interests.