Danish researchers have identified age and alcohol consumption as risk factors for sexual assault.

In 2002, the World Health Organisation categorized sexual violence as a major public health problem and highlighted the need for further research in this field.

The study aimed to determine the circumstances that triggered assaults in order to identify risk factors and enable the development of preventative measures. The researchers also concentrated on how age and the relationship between the victim and the perpetrator were associated with the circumstance of the assault.

For the study, the researchers analysed data of 2541 women attending the specialised centre for victims of sexual assault (CVSA) in Copenhagen for sexual assault or attempted sexual assault between March 2001 and December 2010.

The researchers found that 77 percent of the women met the perpetrator before the sexual assault with nearly 50 percent of them stating that the perpetrator was a current or former boyfriend or family member or a friend. Women who were unaware of their perpetrators were more likely to report to the police and sustain an injury.

The study also found that over 40 percent of women, who had consumed more than 5 units of alcohol, were more likely to be sexually assaulted by a stranger or someone they met within 24 hours prior to the incident.

Plus, the researchers observed physical injuries in victims who had experienced a previous sexual assault.

"Our results challenge the typical stereotype of a violent rape attack by a stranger, which is important in creating an environment where women are not reluctant to seek help after a sexual assault," Dr Mie-Louise Larsen, from the Centre for Victims of Sexual Assault Department and the University of Copenhagen and co-author of the study, said in a press release.

"We need to raise awareness of the fact that most sexual assaults are perpetrated by someone known to the woman, often in familiar surroundings. Many victims will not sustain a physical or anogenital injury. In order to change the general attitudes towards sexual assault, this information should not only target young people, but also the police, healthcare professionals and the general public."