Study evaluates new method for preventing sexual assaults on children

However, the researchers behind a unique new study being launched at the Centre for Andrology and Sexual Medicine at Karolinska University Hospital now hope to be able to change this.

“We are investigating whether a new fast-acting medication reduces the risk of men who are sexually attracted to children committing assaults,” explains Christoffer Rahm, who has main responsibility for the study.

The study participants have not previously been known for or convicted of sex crimes, but have sought help themselves for their sexual orientation patterns via the national PrevenTell helpline (www.preventell.se). It is now being investigated for the first time whether preventive medication can reduce the risk of someone committing assaults on children. This is being studied via a randomised, controlled trial, a format with high explanatory value. If the medication has a risk-reducing effect and few side-effects, it may change how individuals in the risk zone are treated.

“In addition to the pharmaceutical trial, neuropsychological tests, blood sampling and MR brain scans are also being carried out to improve our knowledge about the causes of sexual attraction to children,” continues Christoffer. “The medical-ethical dilemma that arises in this type of research is also being studied.”