Which sign may indicate human trafficking in a patient?

A sudden behavioral change in a patient can be an important indicator of human trafficking. Victims of trafficking often experience trauma, fear, and manipulation, which may lead to drastic shifts in how they present themselves or interact with healthcare providers. This change may manifest as increased anxiety, withdrawal from social interactions, or PTSD symptoms, all of which signal a need for further investigation.

Other signs, while potentially relevant in assessing a patient's overall health or well-being, may not be as directly indicative of human trafficking. For example, a change in diet or recent weight loss could be attributed to numerous unrelated health issues, and frequent hospital visits could simply indicate a chronic health problem or lack of access to ongoing care. Understanding the context and specific behaviors of an individual is crucial in identifying potential victims of trafficking, and sudden behavioral changes often serve as a significant red flag in these situations.