Recognizing a Human Trafficking Victim or a Perpetrator

Course overview

Human trafficking, also called modern day slavery, is a global multibillion-dollar industry. Human trafficking involves many facets including sex trade, domestic work, labor trade/bonded labor, debt bondage, involuntary domestic servitude, forced child labor, child soldiers, forced marriage and organ trafficking.2,3,4 Human trafficking is the second most profitable industry after drug trafficking and it involves all age groups, sexes and covers all socio-economic strata. Most trafficking victims are treated in medical and/or dental facilities during their captivity, but unfortunately the status of them being held captive is not recognized and identified as human trafficking. Learning the signs that may indicate a trafficking situation is paramount in identifying these victims and providing assistance to them and their families. Victims may be male or female, young or old, and from all over the world. Learning more about human trafficking not only increases public awareness, but also awakens the dental community to the possibility your patient could be a trafficking victim or a perpetrator. Tips for recognizing, reporting and seeking assistance are included within this continuing education course.