The Women's Health Council has called for the health service to take into account the impact of domestic violence on women's health.
A new report on worldwide research claims that more women die or are seriously injured through domestic violence every year than through cancer or road crashes.
The council, a state agency, was set up to promote health and social gain for women. It says violence and abuse are the major causes of disability and ill health for women.
WHC director Geraldine Luddy said national and international evidence backs up the view that domestic violence is a significant problem which affects about one in five women in Ireland.
Women who are victims of domestic violence are more likely to access health services.
Even five years after the violence has stopped their health utilisation is 20% higher than of other women.
The council is calling for the health sector to take a more proactive approach to the integration of issues surrounding violence against women in service delivery.
