divorce

Epidemiology

• physicians (24%) are less likely to divorce than nurses (33%), lawyers (27%) & other nonhealthcare professionals (35%)

Complications

• increased risk of myocardial infarction (MI)
  • multiple divorces increase risk of MI in women similar to that of established MI risk factors like smoking, diabetes, & hypertension
  • men who divorce & remarry do not have an increased of MI
  • women who divorce & remarry do have an increased of MI

Management

• clinicians (pediatricians) should:
  • be aware of signs of dysfunctional coparenting relationships
  • consider asking about family changes at each pediatric healthcare encounter
  • emphasize to parents that their behavior during & after a divorce is important for their child's adjustment.
  • always be the child's advocate
  • refer families to mental health services, as needed.
  • refer the child to protective services if there's a concern about current or future abuse or neglect