In Iowa, over 32,500 assessments for child abuse or neglect happened last year, a decrease of 10 percent from 2013. According to the Iowa Department of Human Services, nearly half of children abused or neglected were five years old or younger. Of all child abuse or neglect, 70 percent was neglect, 12 percent was physical, nine percent was presence of illegal drugs in the body and seven percent was sexual.

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time to promote social well-being and awareness strategies. Child abuse can be reported 24 hours a day, seven days a week by calling the hotline at 1-800-362-2178, callers can remain anonymous.

Child abuse and mandatory reporting classes are held periodically at the Kirkwood Washington Regional Center. Physicians, nurses, teachers, day care operators, and peace officers are just a few of the mandatory reporters in the state of Iowa. For more information about mandatory reporting click here.