New Challenges in Prison Health

Prisoners around the world constitute one of the most marginalized and vulnerable populations. Unlike many other such groups, they are designated as criminal and therefore guilty, and often fail to elicit sympathy or compassion on the part of the general public. Prison populations experience increased risk of poor health status and outcomes. The United States imprisons a greater proportion of its population than most developed countries. The fact of imprisonment affects the health and social well-being of not just prisoners but also their families and communities both during and after their terms of incarceration. Individuals, families, and communities of color are disproportionately impacted. As such they present a focal point for public health action.