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Mahawan N, Rattananupong T, Sri-Uam P, Jiamjarasrangsi W. Assessment of tuberculosis transmission probability in three Thai prisons based on five dynamic models. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0305264. [PMID: 39028741 PMCID: PMC11259261 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0305264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to assess and compare the probability of tuberculosis (TB) transmission based on five dynamic models: the Wells-Riley equation, two Rudnick & Milton-proposed models based on air changes per hour (ACH) and liters per second per person (L/s/p), the model proposed by Issarow et al, and the Applied Susceptible-Exposed-Infected-Recovered (SEIR) TB transmission model. This study also aimed to determine the impact of model parameters on such probabilities in three Thai prisons. A cross-sectional study was conducted using data from 985 prison cells. The TB transmission probability for each cell was calculated using parameters relevant to the specific model formula, and the magnitude of the model agreement was examined by Spearman's rank correlation and Bland-Altman plot. Subsequently, a multiple linear regression analysis was conducted to investigate the influence of each model parameter on the estimated probability. Results revealed that the median (Quartiles 1 and 3) of TB transmission probability among these cells was 0.052 (0.017, 0.180). Compared with the pioneered Wells-Riley's model, the remaining models projected discrepant TB transmission probability from less to more commensurate to the degree of model modification from the pioneered model as follows: Rudnick & Milton (ACH), Issarow et al., and Rudnick & Milton (L/s/p), and the applied SEIR models. The ventilation rate and number of infectious TB patients in each cell or zone had the greatest impact on the estimated TB transmission probability in most models. Additionally, the number of inmates in each cell, the area per person in square meters, and the inmate turnover rate were identified as high-impact parameters in the applied SEIR model. All stakeholders must urgently address these influential parameters to reduce TB transmission in prisons. Moreover, further studies are required to determine their relative validity in accurately predicting TB incidence in prison settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nithinan Mahawan
- Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Thanapoom Rattananupong
- Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Puchong Sri-Uam
- Center for Safety, Health and Environment of Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Wiroj Jiamjarasrangsi
- Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
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Nieto-Gutiérrez W, Cvetković-Vega A, Cáceres-Távara ME, Ponce-Torres C. Factors associated with non-treatment for long-term illness among incarcerated individuals. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PRISON HEALTH 2024; 20:172-185. [PMID: 38984600 DOI: 10.1108/ijoph-05-2023-0026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The prison population is seldom studied and often overlooked in many countries despite their vulnerability to long-term illness. This study aims to explore the factors associated with the non-treatment for long-term illnesses among incarcerated individuals. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH This study is a cross-sectional analysis. The authors conducted a secondary data analysis using information collected in the Peruvian census of incarcerated individuals. The study population consisted of incarcerated individuals diagnosed with a long-term illness. To evaluate the factors associated with non-treatment, the authors used a Poisson regression model. FINDINGS The authors included 12,512 incarcerated individuals (age: 40.9 ± 13.1 years), and 39% of them did not receive treatment for their long-term illness. The authors observed that non-treatment was statistically associated with gender, age, having children, use of the Spanish language, sexual identity, judicial situation, penitentiary location, discrimination inside the penitentiary and health insurance before incarceration. However, only having children (prevalence ratio [PR]: 1.11, confidence interval [CI]95% 1.03-1.19), using the Spanish language (PR: 1.15, CI95%: 1.01-1.31), being in a penitentiary not in Lima (PR: 1.11, CI95%: 1.06-1.17) and perceiving discrimination inside the penitentiary (PR: 1.12, CI95% 1.06-1.18) increased the prevalence of non-treatment. ORIGINALITY/VALUE Identifying the factors associated with non-treatment will allow us to implement measures for prioritizing groups and developing strategies for the evaluation, close follow-up of their health and management of comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy Nieto-Gutiérrez
- Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola, Unidad de investigación para la generación y síntesis de evidencia en salud, Lima, Peru
| | | | | | - Christian Ponce-Torres
- Latin American Center of Excellence for Climate Change and Health, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
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Favril L, Rich JD, Hard J, Fazel S. Mental and physical health morbidity among people in prisons: an umbrella review. Lancet Public Health 2024; 9:e250-e260. [PMID: 38553144 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-2667(24)00023-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People who experience incarceration are characterised by poor health profiles. Clarification of the disease burden in the prison population can inform service and policy development. We aimed to synthesise and assess the evidence regarding the epidemiology of mental and physical health conditions among people in prisons worldwide. METHODS In this umbrella review, five bibliographic databases (Web of Science, PubMed, PsycINFO, Embase, and Global Health) were systematically searched from inception to identify meta-analyses published up to Oct 31, 2023, which examined the prevalence or incidence of mental and physical health conditions in general prison populations. We excluded meta-analyses that examined health conditions in selected or clinical prison populations. Prevalence data were extracted from published reports and study authors were contacted for additional information. Estimates were synthesised and stratified by sex, age, and country income level. The robustness of the findings was assessed in terms of heterogeneity, excess significance bias, small-study effects, and review quality. The study protocol was pre-registered with PROSPERO, CRD42023404827. FINDINGS Our search of the literature yielded 1909 records eligible for screening. 1736 articles were excluded and 173 full-text reports were examined for eligibility. 144 articles were then excluded due to not meeting inclusion criteria, which resulted in 29 meta-analyses eligible for inclusion. 12 of these were further excluded because they examined the same health condition. We included data from 17 meta-analyses published between 2002 and 2023. In adult men and women combined, the 6-month prevalence was 11·4% (95% CI 9·9-12·8) for major depression, 9·8% (6·8-13·2) for post-traumatic stress disorder, and 3·7% (3·2-4·1) for psychotic illness. On arrival to prison, 23·8% (95% CI 21·0-26·7) of people met diagnostic criteria for alcohol use disorder and 38·9% (31·5-46·2) for drug use disorder. Half of those with major depression or psychotic illness had a comorbid substance use disorder. Infectious diseases were also common; 17·7% (95% CI 15·0-20·7) of people were antibody-positive for hepatitis C virus, with lower estimates (ranging between 2·6% and 5·2%) found for hepatitis B virus, HIV, and tuberculosis. Meta-regression analyses indicated significant differences in prevalence by sex and country income level, albeit not consistent across health conditions. The burden of non-communicable chronic diseases was only examined in adults aged 50 years and older. Overall, the quality of the evidence was limited by high heterogeneity and small-study effects. INTERPRETATION People in prisons have a specific pattern of morbidity that represents an opportunity for public health to address. In particular, integrating prison health within the national public health system, adequately resourcing primary care and mental health services, and improving linkage with post-release health services could affect public health and safety. Population-based longitudinal studies are needed to clarify the extent to which incarceration affects health. FUNDING Research Foundation-Flanders, Wellcome Trust, National Institutes of Health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louis Favril
- Institute for International Research on Criminal Policy, Faculty of Law and Criminology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Josiah D Rich
- Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | | | - Seena Fazel
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK.
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Manahan KMS, De Guzman AR, Segarra AB, Sucaldito MN, Martinez REC. Establishing an early warning surveillance system in jails in Calabarzon, the Philippines, 2021. Western Pac Surveill Response J 2024; 15:1-7. [PMID: 38957231 PMCID: PMC11217613 DOI: 10.5365/wpsar.2024.15.2.1083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The Philippines' Republic Act 11332 (2020) mandates prisons, jails and detention centres to participate in disease surveillance, but currently no surveillance system exists in these facilities. This report aims to describe the piloting of an early warning disease surveillance system in 21 selected jails in Calabarzon from July to September 2021. Sites were selected based on congestion, proximity to health facilities and logistical capacity. Data sources, collection mechanisms and reporting tools were determined and health personnel were trained in the operation of the system. During the implementation period, the system detected 10 health events, with influenza-like illness and foodborne illness being the most common. Nine of these events were reported within 24 hours. The local health unit provided medications for clinical management and instructed jail nurses on infection prevention and control measures, including active case finding, the isolation of cases and the inspection of food handling. Twelve sites reported over 8 of the 10 weeks, with all sites reporting zero cases promptly. The challenges identified included insufficient workforce, slow internet speed and multitasking. It was concluded that the jail-based early warning surveillance system is feasible and functional, but the perceived benefits of jail management are crucial to the acceptability and ownership of the system. It is recommended to replicate the surveillance system in other penitentiaries nationwide.
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Sagoe KWC, Atuahene K, Ayiku ANA, Pappoe-Ashong PJ, Boamah I, Till H, Hagbe FS, Egyire IK, Nyampong M, Addo SA, Manu A, Noora CL, Tetteh M, Ankomah A, Adanu R. Hepatitis B and human immunodeficiency virus infections within correctional facilities in Ghana. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0293009. [PMID: 37922278 PMCID: PMC10624276 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0293009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have suggested high Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) prevalence in prisons in Ghana. However, this study was part of a nationally representative bio-behavioural survey and determined the prevalence of HIV and HBV among prison inmates and identified factors associated with these infections. Both biomedical and behavioural data were collected from a total of 2,443 prison inmates from 19 prison stations during 2013 in Ghana; 12 male prisons and 7 female prisons selected across the country. The national HIV screening algorithm was used for HIV testing while two rapid detection tests were used to confirm HBV infections. HIV and HBV prevalence among prisoners in Ghana were approximately 2.34% and 12.38% respectively. Only 5 inmates, had co-infection with both viruses. The prevalence of HIV was significantly lower among male inmates (1.5%) compared to the female inmates (11.8%). Age, sex, and marital status, were significantly associated with both HIV and HBV infections. However, BMI category, IDU, and time spent in prison were associated with HIV infections. The educational level was significantly associated with HBV infections. After binary logistic regression, being female (AOR: 0.18, 95% CI: 0.07-0.45, p<0.001) and having a stay of 5 years or more (AOR: 0.07, 95% CI: 0.01-0.60, p = 0.016), increased the risk of having HIV infection. While, those with no formal education (AOR: 0.65, 95% CI: 0.45-0.95, p = 0.024) and are underweight (AOR: 0.51, 95% CI: 0.27-0.99, p = 0.046), were more likely to have HBV infection. Forced penetrative sex may be a problem in the prisons. The need to have and strengthen an integrated screening, treatment and vaccination plan for the prison is emphasized. The prison does not serve as an exceptionally high risk to the general population. The findings support a critical look at the issue of forced penetrative sex in the prisons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kwamena W. C. Sagoe
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Ghana Medical School, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Angela N. A. Ayiku
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Ghana Medical School, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Prince J. Pappoe-Ashong
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Ghana Medical School, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Isaac Boamah
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Ghana Medical School, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Holger Till
- Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit GmbH, Accra, Ghana
| | | | | | | | | | - Adom Manu
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Charles L. Noora
- Department of Epidemiology and Disease Control, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Millicent Tetteh
- Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit GmbH, Accra, Ghana
| | - Augustine Ankomah
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Richard Adanu
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
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Bright AM, Higgins A, Grealish A. Nursing in a prison context: A focused mapping review and synthesis of international nursing literature. J Adv Nurs 2023; 79:4127-4136. [PMID: 37350161 DOI: 10.1111/jan.15751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
AIM To provide a snapshot of the extent to which nursing and the prison context features in non-specialist/generic nursing journals. DESIGN Focused mapping review and synthesis. METHODS Relevant articles were examined for the extent to which they featured nursing and the prison context. A descriptive and contextual analysis of the data was carried out to provide a topography and synthesis of the key trends identified. DATA SOURCES Articles meeting criteria for nursing and the prison context in relevant non-specialized, generic nursing journals (n = 7) from January 2018 to December 2022. RESULTS Four thousand, nine hundred and twelve (n = 4912) articles were published during the review period of which (n = 14) met inclusion criteria. The key trends identified are presented under three headings: taking an advocacy approach for better health and well-being, examining self-determination and autonomy in prison populations and nursing in the prison context. CONCLUSION Nursing and the prison context features in non-specialized and generic nursing journals but sparsely and infrequently. There is a need for greater visibility of nursing and the prison context in nursing journals to help reduce stigma and marginalization of those working and those detained in prison. IMPLICATION FOR THE PROFESSION AND/OR PATIENT CARE Nurses working in prison environments often manage extremely complex care needs. It is necessary to feature all nursing care environments in nursing journals so as to increase visibility and to act as a source of education for all. IMPACT (WHAT PROBLEM DID THE STUDY ADDRESS? MAIN FINDINGS? WHERE/WHOM WILL THE RESEARCH HAVE IMPACT ON): The findings of this review will have impact on all nurses engaged in practice and research as it highlights the extent to which nursing in a prison context is featured in non-specialized nursing journals and also speaks to the challenges faced by those working and detained in prison. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION No patient or public contribution. This was a review of existing literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann-Marie Bright
- Department of Nursing & Midwifery, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
- Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Agnes Higgins
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Annmarie Grealish
- Department of Nursing & Midwifery, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
- Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
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Mazzoleni L, Zovi A, D'Angelo C, Borsino C, Cocco N, Lombardo RC, Ranieri R. Planning and development of an antimicrobial stewardship program in penitentiary facilities: strategies to optimize therapeutic prescribing and reduce the incidence of antibiotic resistance. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1233522. [PMID: 37954056 PMCID: PMC10634441 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1233522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction In correctional facilities, due to the high incidence of bacterial infections, antibiotics are widely prescribed. As a result, it may occur a massive and improper use of antibiotics, which promotes the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. However, in literature, specific experiences, interventions or guidelines aimed to optimize their prescription within prisons are sporadic. Objectives In an Italian hospital where belong patients from four penitentiary institutions, a multidisciplinary team has implemented an antimicrobial stewardship project. The aim of the project was to reduce the incidence of antibiotic resistance in penitentiary institutions by optimizing and rationalizing antibiotic prescribing. Methods Following the analysis of microbiological prevalence and antibiotic consumption data within correctional facilities, the Antimicrobial Stewardship Team developed operational tools to support prison healthcare staff to manage properly antibiotic therapies. Results The analysis showed a gradual increase in antibiotic resistance: in 2021 the prevalence of resistant microorganisms was 1.75%, four times higher than in 2019. In contrast, between 2019 and 2021, antibiotic consumption decreased by 24%. Based on consumption data, pharmacy has drafted an antibiotic formulary for correctional facilities, supplemented with guidelines and data sheets, and also developed a prescription form for critical antibiotics. Conclusion Results showed an increasing incidence of antibiotic resistance within prisons, highlighting the need to establish a dedicated antimicrobial stewardship program. This project may impact positively not only on prisoners, but also for the entire community, as prisons can be considered as places of health education and promotion.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrea Zovi
- Pharmacy, Santi Paolo e Carlo Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Cinzia D'Angelo
- Department of Pharmaceutics, ATS Metropolitan City of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Nicola Cocco
- Penitentiary Infectious Diseases Unit, Santi Paolo e Carlo Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Roberto Ranieri
- Penitentiary Infectious Diseases Unit, Santi Paolo e Carlo Hospital, Milan, Italy
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Hershow RB, Burnett JC, Nicolae L, Marquez N, Everett M, Tyagi E, Williams SP. COVID-19 Burden in Adult Correctional or Detention Facilities and the Surrounding Communities, January 1, 2020-July 20, 2021. JOURNAL OF CORRECTIONAL HEALTH CARE 2023; 29:241-246. [PMID: 37163216 PMCID: PMC10527881 DOI: 10.1089/jchc.22.02.0012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
We estimated the COVID-19 burden in adult correctional or detention facilities and associated counties by state, facility jurisdiction, and county urbanicity. COVID-19 cumulative incidence (cases per 1,000 persons) for each U.S. correctional or detention facility and people ages 18 years and older in the associated county was estimated between January 1, 2020 and July 20, 2021. Across 46 U.S. states, 1,083 correctional or detention facilities in 718 counties were included. The median COVID-19 incidence rate was higher in facilities than in associated counties for 42 of 46 states and for all facility jurisdictions and county urbanicity categories. COVID-19 burden was higher in most facilities than in associated counties. Implementing COVID-19 mitigation measures in correctional settings is needed to prevent SARS-CoV-2 transmission in facilities and associated counties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca B. Hershow
- National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Epidemic Intelligence Service, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Janet C. Burnett
- National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Lavinia Nicolae
- National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- CDC COVID-19 Response, State, Tribal, Local, and Territories Task Force, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Neal Marquez
- UCLA Law COVID Behind Bars Data Project, University of California Los Angeles School of Law, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Michael Everett
- UCLA Law COVID Behind Bars Data Project, University of California Los Angeles School of Law, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Erika Tyagi
- UCLA Law COVID Behind Bars Data Project, University of California Los Angeles School of Law, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Samantha P. Williams
- National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Rahman A, Kuddus MA, Ip RHL, Bewong M. Modelling COVID-19 pandemic control strategies in metropolitan and rural health districts in New South Wales, Australia. Sci Rep 2023; 13:10352. [PMID: 37365205 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-37240-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 remains a significant public health problem in New South Wales, Australia. Although the NSW government is employing various control policies, more specific and compelling interventions are needed to control the spread of COVID-19. This paper presents a modified SEIR-X model based on a nonlinear ordinary differential equations system that considers the transmission routes from asymptomatic (Exposed) and symptomatic (Mild and Critical) individuals. The model is fitted to the corresponding cumulative number of cases in metropolitan and rural health districts of NSW reported by the Health Department and parameterised using the least-squares method. The basic reproduction number [Formula: see text], which measures the possible spread of COVID-19 in a population, is computed using the next generation operator method. Sensitivity analysis of the model parameters reveals that the transmission rate had an enormous influence on [Formula: see text], which may be an option for controlling this disease. Two time-dependent control strategies, namely preventive (it refers to effort at inhibiting the virus transmission and prevention of case development from Exposed, Mild, Critical, Non-hospitalised and Hospitalised population) and management (it refers to enhance the management of Non-hospitalised and Hospitalised individuals who are infected by COVID-19) measures, are considered to mitigate this disease's dynamics using Pontryagin's maximum principle. The most sensible control strategy is determined through the cost-effectiveness analysis for the metropolitan and rural health districts of NSW. Our findings suggest that of the single intervention strategies, enhanced preventive strategy is more cost-effective than management control strategy, as it promptly reduces COVID-19 cases in NSW. In addition, combining preventive and management interventions simultaneously is found to be the most cost-effective. Alternative policies can be implemented to control COVID-19 depending on the policymakers' decisions. Numerical simulations of the overall system are performed to demonstrate the theoretical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azizur Rahman
- School of Computing, Mathematics and Engineering, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2678, Australia.
| | - Md Abdul Kuddus
- School of Computing, Mathematics and Engineering, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2678, Australia
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, 4811, Australia
- Department of Mathematics, University of Rajshahi, Rajshahi, 6205, Bangladesh
| | - Ryan H L Ip
- School of Computing, Mathematics and Engineering, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2678, Australia
| | - Michael Bewong
- School of Computing, Mathematics and Engineering, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2678, Australia
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Mendulo R, Chiumia IK. The state of cervical cancer screening in imprisoned women in Malawi: a case of Maula Prison. BMC Womens Health 2023; 23:198. [PMID: 37118738 PMCID: PMC10142221 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02349-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Malawi is one of the countries with the highest burden of cervical cancer in the world with less than ten percent of women screened for cervical cancer annually. The study aimed to investigate the state of cervical cancer screening among incarcerated women at Maula prison. The study highlights key challenges that women in prison face to access cervical cancer screening to inform policies and strategies to address them. METHODS The study employed a cross-sectional qualitative study design. A total of 31 prisoners aged between 18 to 49 participated in the study. Among these, 15 women participated in in-depth interviews, while 16 women participated in two focus group discussions consisting of 8 women per group. All interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data was analysed using inductive content analysis. FINDINGS Majority of women at Maula prison demonstrated knowledge of cervical cancer, its associated risk factors and the benefits of cervical cancer screening. Most women also expressed willingness to undergo cervical cancer screening. However, the following were identified as factors that hinder women from accessing cervical cancer screening services at the prison:-limited availability of the services, pain during the screening process, the presence of male practitioners conducting screening, poor treatment by authorities and health workers and favouritism. CONCLUSION To improve cervical cancer screening and its uptake at Maula prison there is a need to ensure unlimited availability of the screening services which should be conducted by female health practitioners. There is also a need to include this service as part of the mandatory health screening exercise that is conducted upon entry into the prison by all prisoners. Conducting in-depth awareness and sensitization with participants before screening would help to eradicate fear, provide assurance and clarification of the screening process. Prison officers and health workers should also be sensitised to improve prisoners' access to healthcare during incarceration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Regina Mendulo
- Department of Public Health, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Blantyre, Malawi.
| | - Isabel Kazanga Chiumia
- Department of Health Systems and Policy, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Blantyre, Malawi
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Franchi C, Rossi R, Malizia A, Gaudio P, Di Giovanni D. Biological risk in Italian prisons: data analysis from the second to the fourth wave of COVID-19 pandemic. Occup Environ Med 2023; 80:273-279. [PMID: 36927731 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2022-108599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The management of COVID-19 in Italian prisons triggered considerable concern at the beginning of the pandemic due to numerous riots which resulted in inmate deaths, damages and prison breaks. The aim of this study is to shed some light, through analysis of the infection and relevant disease parameters, on the period spanning from the second to the fourth wave of the outbreak in Italy's prisons. METHODS Reproductive number (Rt) and Hospitalisation were calculated through a Eulerian approach applied to differential equations derived from compartmental models. Comparison between trends was performed through paired t-test and linear regression analyses. RESULTS The infection trends (prevalence and Rt) show a high correlation between the prison population and the external community. Both the indices appear to be lagging 1 week in prison. The prisoners' Rt values are not statistically different from those of the general population. The hospitalisation trend of inmates strongly correlates with the external population's, with a delay of 2 weeks. The magnitude of hospitalisations in prison is less than in the external community for the period analysed. CONCLUSIONS The comparison with the external community revealed that in prison the infection prevalence was greater, although Rt values showed no significant difference, and the hospitalisation rate was lower. These results suggest that the consistent monitoring of inmates results in a higher infection prevalence while a wide vaccination campaign leads to a lower hospitalisation rate. All three indices demonstrate a lag of 1 or 2 weeks in prison. This delay could represent a useful time-window to strengthen planned countermeasures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristiano Franchi
- Industrial Engineering, University of Rome Tor Vergata Engineering Macro Area, Roma, Italy
| | - Riccardo Rossi
- Industrial Engineering, University of Rome Tor Vergata Engineering Macro Area, Roma, Italy
| | - Andrea Malizia
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Roma, Italy
| | - Pasqualino Gaudio
- Industrial Engineering, University of Rome Tor Vergata Engineering Macro Area, Roma, Italy
| | - Daniele Di Giovanni
- Industrial Engineering, University of Rome Tor Vergata Engineering Macro Area, Roma, Italy.,UniCamillus, Rome, Italy
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Fiatsonu E, Busselman RE, Ndeffo-Mbah ML. A Scoping Review of Mathematical Models Used to Investigate the Role of Dogs in Chagas Disease Transmission. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13040555. [PMID: 36830342 PMCID: PMC9951694 DOI: 10.3390/ani13040555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Chagas disease is a zoonotic vector-borne disease caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, which affects a variety of mammalian species across the Americas, including humans and dogs. Mathematical modeling has been widely used to investigate the transmission dynamics and control of vector-borne diseases. We performed a scoping review of mathematical models that investigated the role of dogs in T. cruzi transmission. We identified ten peer-reviewed papers that have explicitly modeled the role of dogs in Chagas transmission dynamics. We discuss the different methods employed in these studies, the different transmission metrics, disease transmission routes, and disease control strategies that have been considered and evaluated. In general, mathematical modeling studies have shown that dogs are not only at high risk of T. cruzi infection but are also major contributors to T. cruzi transmission to humans. Moreover, eliminating infected dogs from households or frequent use of insecticide was shown to be effective for curtailing T. cruzi transmission in both humans and dogs. However, when insecticide spraying is discontinued, T. cruzi infections in dogs were shown to return to their pre-spraying levels. We discuss the challenges and opportunities for future modeling studies to improve our understanding of Chagas disease transmission dynamics and control.
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13
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Weyant C, Lee S, Andrews JR, Alarid-Escudero F, Goldhaber-Fiebert JD. Dynamics of Respiratory Infectious Diseases in Incarcerated and Free-Living Populations: A Simulation Modeling Study. Med Decis Making 2023; 43:42-52. [PMID: 35904128 PMCID: PMC9742162 DOI: 10.1177/0272989x221115364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Historically, correctional facilities have had large outbreaks of respiratory infectious diseases like COVID-19. Hence, importation and exportation of such diseases from correctional facilities raises substantial concern. METHODS We developed a stochastic simulation model of transmission of respiratory infectious diseases within and between correctional facilities and the community. We investigated the infection dynamics, key governing factors, and relative importance of different infection routes (e.g., incarcerations and releases versus correctional staff). We also developed machine-learning meta-models of the simulation model, which allowed us to examine how our findings depended on different disease, correctional facility, and community characteristics. RESULTS We find a magnification-reflection dynamic: a small outbreak in the community can cause a larger outbreak in the correction facility, which can then cause a second, larger outbreak in the community. This dynamic is strongest when community size is relatively small as compared with the size of the correctional population, the initial community R-effective is near 1, and initial prevalence of immunity in the correctional population is low. The timing of the correctional magnification and community reflection peaks in infection prevalence are primarily governed by the initial R-effective for each setting. Because the release rates from prisons are low, our model suggests correctional staff may be a more important infection entry route into prisons than incarcerations and releases; in jails, where incarceration and release rates are much higher, our model suggests the opposite. CONCLUSIONS We find that across many combinations of respiratory pathogens, correctional settings, and communities, there can be substantial magnification-reflection dynamics, which are governed by several key factors. Our goal was to derive theoretical insights relevant to many contexts; our findings should be interpreted accordingly. HIGHLIGHTS We find a magnification-reflection dynamic: a small outbreak in a community can cause a larger outbreak in a correctional facility, which can then cause a second, larger outbreak in the community.For public health decision makers considering contexts most susceptible to this dynamic, we find that the dynamic is strongest when the community size is relatively small, initial community R-effective is near 1, and the initial prevalence of immunity in the correctional population is low; the timing of the correctional magnification and community reflection peaks in infection prevalence are primarily governed by the initial R-effective for each setting.We find that correctional staff may be a more important infection entry route into prisons than incarcerations and releases; however, for jails, the relative importance of the entry routes may be reversed.For modelers, we combine simulation modeling, machine-learning meta-modeling, and interpretable machine learning to examine how our findings depend on different disease, correctional facility, and community characteristics; we find they are generally robust.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Serin Lee
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Jason R Andrews
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Fernando Alarid-Escudero
- Division of Public Administration, Center for Research and Teaching in Economics (CIDE), Aguascalientes, Mexico
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14
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Levintow SN, DiRosa E, Carda-Auten J, Brown ME, Bradley-Bull S, Blue C, Powers KA, Rosen DL. SARS-CoV-2 Mitigation Strategies, Testing, and Cases at 254 Jails in the US Southeast, October 2020 to May 2021. Am J Public Health 2022; 112:1589-1598. [PMID: 36223569 PMCID: PMC9558185 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2022.307012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 09/04/2023]
Abstract
Objectives. To characterize severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) mitigation strategies, testing, and cases across county jails in the Southeastern United States, examining variability by jail characteristics. Methods. We administered a 1-time telephone survey to personnel of 254 jails in Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina between October 2020 and May 2021. Results. Some SARS-CoV-2 mitigation strategies (e.g., screening at intake, isolation and masking for symptomatic persons) were commonly reported (≥ 75% of jails). Other measures, such as masking regardless of symptoms (52%) and screening at release (26%), were less common and varied by jail state or population size. Overall, 41% of jails reported no SARS-CoV-2 testing in the past 30 days. Jails with testing (59%) tested a median of 6 per 100 incarcerated persons; of those jails, one third reported 1 or more cases of positive tests. Although most jails detected no cases, in the 20% of all jails with 1 or more case in the past 30 days, 1 in 5 tests was positive. Conclusions. There was low testing coverage and variable implementation of SARS-CoV-2 mitigation strategies in Southeastern US jails during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. (Am J Public Health. 2022;112(11):1589-1598. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2022.307012).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara N Levintow
- Sara N. Levintow and Kimberly A. Powers are with the Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Elena DiRosa, Jessica Carda-Auten, Mersedes E. Brown, Steve Bradley-Bull, and Colleen Blue are with the Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. David L. Rosen is with the Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | - Elena DiRosa
- Sara N. Levintow and Kimberly A. Powers are with the Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Elena DiRosa, Jessica Carda-Auten, Mersedes E. Brown, Steve Bradley-Bull, and Colleen Blue are with the Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. David L. Rosen is with the Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | - Jessica Carda-Auten
- Sara N. Levintow and Kimberly A. Powers are with the Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Elena DiRosa, Jessica Carda-Auten, Mersedes E. Brown, Steve Bradley-Bull, and Colleen Blue are with the Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. David L. Rosen is with the Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | - Mersedes E Brown
- Sara N. Levintow and Kimberly A. Powers are with the Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Elena DiRosa, Jessica Carda-Auten, Mersedes E. Brown, Steve Bradley-Bull, and Colleen Blue are with the Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. David L. Rosen is with the Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | - Steve Bradley-Bull
- Sara N. Levintow and Kimberly A. Powers are with the Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Elena DiRosa, Jessica Carda-Auten, Mersedes E. Brown, Steve Bradley-Bull, and Colleen Blue are with the Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. David L. Rosen is with the Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | - Colleen Blue
- Sara N. Levintow and Kimberly A. Powers are with the Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Elena DiRosa, Jessica Carda-Auten, Mersedes E. Brown, Steve Bradley-Bull, and Colleen Blue are with the Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. David L. Rosen is with the Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | - Kimberly A Powers
- Sara N. Levintow and Kimberly A. Powers are with the Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Elena DiRosa, Jessica Carda-Auten, Mersedes E. Brown, Steve Bradley-Bull, and Colleen Blue are with the Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. David L. Rosen is with the Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | - David L Rosen
- Sara N. Levintow and Kimberly A. Powers are with the Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Elena DiRosa, Jessica Carda-Auten, Mersedes E. Brown, Steve Bradley-Bull, and Colleen Blue are with the Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. David L. Rosen is with the Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
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15
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Khorasani S, Zubiago J, Carreiro J, Guardado R, Wurcel AG. Influenza Vaccination in Massachusetts Jails: A Mixed-Methods Analysis. Public Health Rep 2022; 137:936-943. [PMID: 34524903 PMCID: PMC9379841 DOI: 10.1177/00333549211041659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Influenza infects millions of people each year and contributes to tens of thousands of deaths annually despite the availability of vaccines. People most at risk of influenza complications are disproportionately represented in people incarcerated in US prisons and jails. The objectives of this study were to survey health administrators in Massachusetts county jails about institutional influenza vaccine policies and practices and estimate influenza vaccination rates in Massachusetts jails from 2013 to 2020. METHODS In April 2020, we administered surveys to the health services administrators in Massachusetts' 14 county jails to gather information about influenza vaccination policies and delivery practices. To calculate influenza vaccination rates for each facility, we obtained data on influenza vaccine orders from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health for each county in Massachusetts for influenza seasons 2013-2020. We calculated summary statistics for each reporting facility and each year, conducted a Kruskal-Wallis analysis to compare vaccination rates between years, and used a linear regression model to identify predictors of vaccination rates. RESULTS Influenza vaccination rates in Massachusetts jails ranged from 1.9% to 11.8%. We found no significant differences in vaccination rates between years. Influenza vaccine ordering and delivery practices varied by jail, and respondents had high levels of confidence in influenza policies and vaccine delivery practices. CONCLUSIONS Influenza vaccination rates in Massachusetts jails are low, and delivery practices in jails vary. Lack of influenza vaccinations in jails is a gap in health care that needs to be prioritized, especially considering the current COVID-19 pandemic. Further investigations for effective and equitable vaccination in this population should involve people who are incarcerated and people who make influenza vaccine policies in jails.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Julia Zubiago
- Division of Geographic Medicine and Infectious Diseases,
Department of Medicine, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jac Carreiro
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rubeen Guardado
- Division of Geographic Medicine and Infectious Diseases,
Department of Medicine, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Alysse G. Wurcel
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Geographic Medicine and Infectious Diseases,
Department of Medicine, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
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16
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Maner M, Omori M, Brinkley-Rubinstein L, Beckwith CG, Nowotny K. Infectious disease surveillance in U.S. jails: Findings from a national survey. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0272374. [PMID: 36006896 PMCID: PMC9409583 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0272374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
While infectious diseases (ID) are a well-documented public health issue in carceral settings, research on ID screening and treatment in jails is lacking. A survey was sent to 1,126 jails in the United States to identify the prevalence of health screenings at intake and characteristics of care for ID; 371 surveys were completed correctly and analyzed. Despite conflicting Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidance, only seven percent of surveyed jails test individuals for HIV at admission. In 46% of jails, non-healthcare personnel perform ID screenings. Jails in less urban areas were more likely to report healthcare screenings performed by correctional officers. Survey findings indicate that HIV, HCV and TB testing during jail admissions and access to PrEP are severely lacking in less urban jails in particular. Recommendations are provided to improve ID surveillance and address the burden of ID in correctional facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgan Maner
- Department of Social Medicine, Center for Health Equity Research, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Marisa Omori
- Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice, University of Missouri, Saint Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Lauren Brinkley-Rubinstein
- Department of Social Medicine, Center for Health Equity Research, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Curt G. Beckwith
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, The Miriam Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Kathryn Nowotny
- Department of Sociology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, United States of America
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17
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Patel K, Herdman B, Brown K. Preventing Interruptions in Health Care After Release From Jail. JOURNAL OF CORRECTIONAL HEALTH CARE 2022; 28:215-219. [PMID: 35648038 DOI: 10.1089/jchc.20.12.0119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
The burden of illness, especially mental health and substance abuse, among the incarcerated population is a major factor for recidivism. County jails throughout the United States provide health care disconnected to care given before and after incarceration. Although the mental health issues of incarcerated individuals are well managed during incarceration, they have inadequate medical coverage and medications upon release. In partnership with the Philadelphia Department of Prisons, we launched a new initiative to enroll women into Medicaid before release and set up their first doctor's appointments to ensure continuous access to treatment. This article presents a methodology for connection between health care provided while inside a jail and health care given in the community for people returning to communities after incarceration. We describe a process for establishing and reestablishing health insurance while incarcerated and making first appointments in preparation for discharge from a large urban jail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kriya Patel
- College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Bruce Herdman
- Philadelphia Department of Prisons, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Kathleen Brown
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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18
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McCarthy CV, O'Mara O, van Leeuwen E, Jit M, Sandmann F. The impact of COVID-19 vaccination in prisons in England and Wales: a metapopulation model. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:1003. [PMID: 35585575 PMCID: PMC9115545 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13219-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND High incidence of cases and deaths due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have been reported in prisons worldwide. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of different COVID-19 vaccination strategies in epidemiologically semi-enclosed settings such as prisons, where staff interact regularly with those incarcerated and the wider community. METHODS We used a metapopulation transmission-dynamic model of a local prison in England and Wales. Two-dose vaccination strategies included no vaccination, vaccination of all individuals who are incarcerated and/or staff, and an age-based approach. Outcomes were quantified in terms of COVID-19-related symptomatic cases, losses in quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs), and deaths. RESULTS Compared to no vaccination, vaccinating all people living and working in prison reduced cases, QALY loss and deaths over a one-year period by 41%, 32% and 36% respectively. However, if vaccine introduction was delayed until the start of an outbreak, the impact was negligible. Vaccinating individuals who are incarcerated and staff over 50 years old averted one death for every 104 vaccination courses administered. All-staff-only strategies reduced cases by up to 5%. Increasing coverage from 30 to 90% among those who are incarcerated reduced cases by around 30 percentage points. CONCLUSIONS The impact of vaccination in prison settings was highly dependent on early and rapid vaccine delivery. If administered to both those living and working in prison prior to an outbreak occurring, vaccines could substantially reduce COVID-19-related morbidity and mortality in prison settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ciara V McCarthy
- Centre for Mathematical Modelling of Infectious Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
| | - Oscar O'Mara
- Her Majesty's Prison and Probation Service, London, UK & the University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Edwin van Leeuwen
- Centre for Mathematical Modelling of Infectious Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Statistics, Modelling and Economics Department, UK Health Security Agency, London, UK
| | - Mark Jit
- Centre for Mathematical Modelling of Infectious Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Frank Sandmann
- Centre for Mathematical Modelling of Infectious Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Statistics, Modelling and Economics Department, UK Health Security Agency, London, UK
- Current Address: European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), Stockholm, Sweden
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Soltobekova N, Kozukeev T, Yiehdego G, Labib F, Hovhannesyan A, Rossi R. Time to start of tuberculosis treatment in penitentiary system of Kyrgyz Republic: A retrospective cohort study. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0264252. [PMID: 35263370 PMCID: PMC8906629 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0264252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background
Tuberculosis burden among the incarcerated population is generally higher than that of general population. Early diagnosis and prompt initiation of treatment are key strategies to contain disease transmission. The aim of this study was to determine the time to treatment initiation among inmates with new smear or Xpert MTB/RIF positive pulmonary tuberculosis and explore risk factors associated with delayed treatment initiation in prison settings.
Methods
We conducted a retrospective cohort study using routine health care data from prison settings in Kzrgyz Republic on new pulmonary tuberculosis patients confirmed by smear microscopy or GeneXpert MTB/RIF during 2014–2019. We computed delay in start of treatment—days from specimen collection to treatment initiation—for exposure variables. We dichotomized treatment delay using 10-day cut-off point,and used logistic regression to identify factors associated with treatment delay.
Results
Among 406 cases included into analysis, the median delay to treatment initiation was 7 days [IQR: 2–16 days]. Using 10-day cut-off, 189 (46.6%) patients had delayed treatment initiation. Treatment delay was negatively associated with smear positivity [adjusted OR (aOR) = 0.44, 95% CI 0.29–0.68] compared to smear negative patients, while patients with isoniazid resistant (aOR = 2.61, 95%CI 1.49–4.56) and rifampicin resistant tuberculosis (aOR = 4.14, 95%CI 2.56–6.77) had increased delay compared to patients who were sensitive for both rifampicin and isoniazid.
Conclusion
Timely diagnosis and effective treatment remain the cornerstone of TB control program populations in the general and in prison settings in particular. Prison authorities need to address all potential areas of delay in TB diagnosis and treatment to strengthen their TB control efforts so that prisons remain free of TB for detainees, prison staff and visitors. These include improved supply of TB drugs, early detection of TB cases and improved collaboration with the health authorities outside the prison system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazgul Soltobekova
- Department for Medical and Sanitary Services of the State Service for Execution of Punishment, Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic
| | - Turatbek Kozukeev
- International Committee of the Red Cross, Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic
- * E-mail: (GY); (RR); (TK)
| | - Ghirmai Yiehdego
- International Committee of the Red Cross, Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic
- * E-mail: (GY); (RR); (TK)
| | - Fatah Labib
- International Committee of the Red Cross, Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic
- National Center of Phthisiology, Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic
| | | | - Rodolfo Rossi
- International Committee of the Red Cross, Geneva, Switzerland
- * E-mail: (GY); (RR); (TK)
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20
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Qureshi N, Cardenas C, Tran ND, Henderson SO. Implementation of a COVID-19 Infection Control Plan in a Large Urban Jail System. Public Health Rep 2022; 137:442-448. [PMID: 35184638 PMCID: PMC9109523 DOI: 10.1177/00333549221076551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit the United States, the number of people confined in correctional facilities on a single day numbered 1.8 million. Incarcerated people are at an increased risk of contracting and spreading SARS-CoV-2. Recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on case recognition, management, isolation, and contact tracing are particularly challenging in jails because of the high turnover of incarcerated people. Beginning in late February 2020, the Department of Correctional Health Services in the Los Angeles County Jail system implemented a multipronged COVID-19 mitigation plan that was progressively amended in accordance with local and national recommendations. This plan entailed the creation of housing for people under investigation, SARS-CoV-2 screening upon entry, a mass-testing program, and identification and monitoring of medically vulnerable people. After the identification of the first laboratory-confirmed case on March 29, 2020, predictive models were generated to visualize potential disease spread and gain support for mitigation strategy planning, which forecasted approximately 3300-4600 cumulative cases during a 278-day period. From March 7 through December 31, 2020, the percentage positivity among unique people tested for SARS-CoV-2 was 11.6% (3933 of 33 921 tested). Among those screened at intake, the percentage positivity was 2.0% (502 of 25 702 tested). The ethnic distribution among people with a positive SARS-CoV-2 test result was largely representative of the overall jail population, and most people were asymptomatic. A sustainable, multifaceted mitigation plan that relies on collaboration among medical, custodial, and local public health personnel is essential for limiting the spread of SARS-CoV-2 infection in correctional facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazia Qureshi
- Los Angeles County Department of Health
Services—Correctional Health, Los Angeles, CA, USA,Nazia Qureshi, MPH, Los Angeles County
Department of Health Services—Correctional Health, 450 Bauchet St, 8th Floor,
Room E815, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA.
| | - Charles Cardenas
- Los Angeles County Department of Health
Services—Correctional Health, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ngoc Dung Tran
- Los Angeles County Department of Health
Services—Correctional Health, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Sean O. Henderson
- Los Angeles County Department of Health
Services—Correctional Health, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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21
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Gao S, Wang H. Scenario prediction of public health emergencies using infectious disease dynamics model and dynamic Bayes. FUTURE GENERATIONS COMPUTER SYSTEMS : FGCS 2022; 127:334-346. [PMID: 34566221 PMCID: PMC8452458 DOI: 10.1016/j.future.2021.09.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
This study was aimed to discuss the predictive value of infectious disease dynamics model (IDD model) and dynamic Bayesian network (DBN) for scenario deduction of public health emergencies (PHEs). Based on the evolution law of PHEs and the meta-scenario representation of basic knowledge, this study established a DBN scenario deduction model for scenario deduction and evolution path analysis of PHEs. At the same time, based on the average field dynamics model of the SIR network, the dimensionality reduction process was performed to calculate the epidemic scale and epidemic time based on the IDD model, so as to determine the calculation methods of threshold value and epidemic time under emergency measures (quarantine). The Corona Virus Disease (COVID) epidemic was undertaken as an example to analyze the results of DBN scenario deduction, and the infectious disease dynamics model was used to analyze the number of reproductive numbers, peak arrival time, epidemic time, and latency time of the COVID epidemic. It was found that after the M1 measure was used to process the S1 state, the state probability and the probability of being true (T) were the highest, which were 91.05 and 90.21, respectively. In the sixth stage of the development of the epidemic, the epidemic had developed to level 5, the number of infected people was about 26, and the estimated loss was about 220 million yuan. The comprehensive cumulative foreground (CF) values of O1 ∼ O3 schemes were -1.34, -1.21, and -0.77, respectively, and the final CF values were -1.35, 0.01, and -0.08, respectively. The final CF value of O2 was significantly higher than the other two options. The household infection probability was the highest, which was 0.37 and 0.35 in Wuhan and China, respectively. Under the measures of home quarantine, the numbers of confirmed cases of COVID in China and Wuhan were 1.503 (95% confidential interval (CI) = 1.328 ∼ 1.518) and 1.729 (95% CI = 1.107 ∼ 1.264), respectively, showing good fits with the real data. On the 21st day after the quarantine measures were taken, the number of COVID across the country had an obvious peak, with the confirmed cases of 24495, and the model prediction value was 24085 (95% CI = 23988 ∼ 25056). The incubation period 1/q was shortened from 8 days to 3 days, and the number of confirmed cases showed an upward trend. The peak period of confirmed cases was advanced, shortening the overall epidemic time. It showed that the prediction results of scenario deduction based on DBN were basically consistent with the actual development scenario and development status of the epidemic. It could provide corresponding decisions for the prevention and control of COVID based on the relevant parameters of the infectious disease dynamic model, which verified the rationality and feasibility of the scenario deduction method proposed in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Gao
- School of Business, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 430074, China
| | - Hanyi Wang
- School of Business, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 430074, China
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22
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Chronic Viral Hepatitis in the Italian Prison Setting: Prevalence, Outcomes, Literature Needs and Perspectives. Healthcare (Basel) 2021; 9:healthcare9091186. [PMID: 34574960 PMCID: PMC8467805 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9091186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Compared with the general population, incarcerated people have a higher prevalence of several communicable diseases, including viral hepatitis. Nevertheless, there is still a lack of literature in field. Our review aims to shed the actual knowledge on viral hepatitis among incarcerated people in Italy. We performed a comprehensive literature search, through key electronic databases (Scopus, Pubmed–MEDLINE) and search engines (Google Scholar), of peer-reviewed publications (articles and reviews), grey literature on viral hepatitis prevalence, and models proposed for active case finding and control strategies in prison settings. We found that viral hepatitis epidemiology drastically changed in the last five years, particularly on hepatitis C virus (HCV), reporting an HCV antibody (HCV-Ab) prevalence decrease from up to 38% to ˂20% in penitentiary institutes, as well as an even more important reduction in active infections. Probably, the availability of direct-acting antivirals is contributing to this scenario. However, there is a lack of data available regarding incarcerated women. For this reason, more tailored interventions are needed for this sub-population. Judiciary and regulatory bodies should be prompted to discuss and define specific regulations to optimize case active finding strategies, guarantee wide access to effective preventive and treatment options for viral hepatitis and enhance treatment management.
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Nosrati E, Kang-Brown J, Ash M, McKee M, Marmot M, King LP. Incarceration and mortality in the United States. SSM Popul Health 2021; 15:100827. [PMID: 34150979 PMCID: PMC8193150 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2021.100827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Revised: 05/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has spotlighted the role of America's overcrowded prisons as vectors of ill health, but robust analyses of the degree to which high rates of incarceration impact population-level health outcomes remain scarce. In this paper, we use county-level panel data from 2927 counties across 43 states between 1983 and 2014 and a novel instrumental variable technique to study the causal effect of penal expansion on age-standardised cause-specific and all-cause mortality rates. We find that higher rates of incarceration have substantively large effects on deaths from communicable, maternal, neonatal, and nutritional diseases in the short and medium term, whilst deaths from non-communicable disease and from all causes combined are impacted in the short, medium, and long run. These findings are further corroborated by a between-unit analysis using coarsened exact matching and a simulation-based regression approach to predicting geographically anchored mortality differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elias Nosrati
- University of Oxford, Merton College, Merton Street, OX1 4JD, Oxford, UK
| | - Jacob Kang-Brown
- Vera Institute of Justice, 233 Broadway, 12th Floor, New York, NY, 10279, USA
| | - Michael Ash
- University of Massachusetts Amherst, Department of Economics, Crotty Hall, 412 North Pleasant Street, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, 01002, USA
| | - Martin McKee
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, WC1E 7HT, London, UK
| | - Michael Marmot
- Institute of Health Equity, Department for Epidemiology & Public Health, University College London, 1-19, Torrington Place, WC1E 7HB, London, UK
| | - Lawrence P. King
- University of Massachusetts Amherst, Department of Economics, Crotty Hall, 412 North Pleasant Street, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, 01002, USA
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Innovative tracking, active search and follow-up strategies for new leprosy cases in the female prison population. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009716. [PMID: 34415916 PMCID: PMC8409633 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Regarding the leprosy transmission through the upper airways, overcrowded locations such as prisons can become a risk to get sick. Like the leprosy hidden endemic demonstrated in male prison population, being interesting to assess the leprosy scene also among confined women. METHODS A prospective descriptive study conducted at Female Penitentiary, Brazil. Leprosy Suspicion Questionnaire (LSQ) were applied to the participants, and submitted to specialized dermatoneurological exam, peripheral nerve ultrasonography, and anti-PGL-I serology. FINDINGS 404 female inmates were evaluated, 14 new cases were diagnosed (LG-leprosy group), a new case detection rate (NCDR) of 3.4%, 13 multibacillary, while another 390 constituted the Non-Leprosy group (NLG). Leprosy cases were followed up during multidrug therapy with clinical improvement. The confinement time median was 31 months in LG, similar to NLG, less than the time of leprosy incubation. Regarding LSQ, the neurological symptoms reached the highest x2 values as Q1-numbness (5.6), Q3-anesthetizes areas in the skin (7.5), Q5-Stinging sensation (5.8), and Q7-pain in the nerves (34.7), while Q4-spots on the skin was 4.94. When more than one question were marked in the LSQ means a 12.8-fold higher to have the disease than a subject who marked only one or none. The high 34% rate of anti-PGL-I seropositivity in the penitentiary, higher levels in LG than NLG. Three additional leprosy cases each were diagnosed on the second (n = 66) and third (n = 14) reevaluations 18 and 36 months after the initial one. Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments demonstrated lower limbs (32.2%) more affected than the upper limbs (25%) with improvement during the follow-up. INTERPRETATION The NCDR in this population showed an hidden endemic of leprosy as well as the efficacy of a search action on the part of a specialized team with the aid of the LSQ and anti-PGL-I serology as an auxiliary tracking tools.
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Yoon S, Ju YS, Yoon J, Kim JH, Choi B, Kim SS. Health inequalities of 57,541 prisoners in Korea: a comparison with the general population. Epidemiol Health 2021; 43:e2021033. [PMID: 33971702 PMCID: PMC8289480 DOI: 10.4178/epih.e2021033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to examine health disparities between prisoners and the general population in Korea. METHODS We sought to estimate the prevalence of 17 physical and mental diseases using the nationwide medication prescription dataset among the total population of prisoners (n=57,541) in Korea. Age- and sex- standardized prevalence ratios (SPRs) were estimated to compare the disease prevalence between the prisoners and the general population. The disease prevalence for the general population was calculated from the prescription dataset for a representative of the Korean population (n=926,246) from the 2013 Korean National Health Insurance Service-National Sample Cohort. Furthermore, the prevalence of these diseases was compared between prisoners and a low-income segment of the general population (n=159,781). RESULTS Compared to the general population, prisoners had higher prevalence of almost all physical and mental diseases, including hyperlipidemia (SPR, 20.18; 95% confidence interval [CI], 19.43 to 20.94), pulmonary tuberculosis (SPR, 9.58; 95% CI, 7.91 to 11.50), diabetes (SPR, 6.13; 95% CI, 5.96 to 6.31), cancer (SPR, 2.36; 95% CI, 2.07 to 2.68), and depression (SPR, 46.73; 95% CI, 44.14 to 49.43). When compared with the low-income population segment, higher prevalence were still found among prisoners for most diseases, including pulmonary tuberculosis (SPR, 6.39; 95% CI, 5.27 to 7.67) and depression (SPR, 34.71; 95% CI, 32.79 to 36.72). CONCLUSIONS We found that prisoners were more likely to be unhealthy than the general population, even in comparison with a low-income segment of the general population in Korea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seohyun Yoon
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Korea University, Seoul, Korea
- Ewha Medical Research Institute, Ewha Womans University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | | | - Jaehong Yoon
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Korea University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ji-Hwan Kim
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Korea University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Bokyoung Choi
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Korea University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seung-Sup Kim
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Korea University, Seoul, Korea
- Interdisciplinary Program in Precision Public Health, Korea University, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
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Hershow RB, Segaloff HE, Shockey AC, Florek KR, Murphy SK, DuBose W, Schaeffer TL, Powell Mph JA, Gayle K, Lambert L, Schwitters A, Clarke KEN, Westergaard R. Rapid Spread of SARS-CoV-2 in a State Prison After Introduction by Newly Transferred Incarcerated Persons - Wisconsin, August 14-October 22, 2020. MMWR-MORBIDITY AND MORTALITY WEEKLY REPORT 2021; 70:478-482. [PMID: 33793462 PMCID: PMC8022877 DOI: 10.15585/mmwr.mm7013a4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Increased incarceration rates drive growing tuberculosis burden in prisons and jeopardize overall tuberculosis control in Paraguay. Sci Rep 2020; 10:21247. [PMID: 33277515 PMCID: PMC7718226 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-77504-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Incarcerated populations are at high-risk to develop tuberculosis (TB), however their impact on the population-level tuberculosis epidemic has been scarcely studied. We aimed to describe the burden and trends of TB among incarcerated populations over time in Paraguay, its clinical and epidemiological differences and the population attributable fraction. This is an observational, descriptive study including all TB cases notified to the National TB control Program in Paraguay during the period 2009–2018. We also used case registries of prisoners diagnosed with tuberculosis from the Minister of Justice. The population attributable fraction of TB in the community due to incarcerated cases was estimated through Levin’s formula. The characteristics of TB cases in and outside of prison were compared as well as the characteristics of TB in prisons were modified over time. During 2009–2018, 2764 (9.7%) of the 28,534 TB reported cases in Paraguay occurred in prisons. The number of prisoners in Paraguay increased from 6258 in 2009 to 14,627 in 2018 (incarceration rate, 101 to 207 per 100,000 persons) while the number of TB cases among prisoners increased by 250% (n = 192 in 2009 versus n = 480 in 2018). The annual TB notification rate among male prisoners was 3218 and 3459 per 100,000 inmates in 2009 and 2018, respectively. The percentage of all TB cases occurring among prisoners increased from 7.1% in 2009 to 14.5% in 2018. The relative risk of TB in prisons compared to community was 70.3 (95% CI, 67.7–73.1); the overall population attributable risk was 9.5%. Among the 16 penitentiary centers in the country, two of them—Tacumbú (39.0%) and Ciudad del Este (23.3%)—represent two thirds of all TB cases in prisons. TB among inmates is predominantly concentrated in those 20–34 years old (77.3% of all), twice the percentage of cases for the same age group outside of prison. Our findings show that the TB epidemic in prisons represents one of the most important challenges for TB control in Paraguay, especially in the country’s largest cities. Appropriate TB control measures among incarcerated populations are needed and may have substantial impact on the overall TB burden in the country.
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Kothari R, Forrester A, Greenberg N, Sarkissian N, Tracy DK. COVID-19 and prisons: Providing mental health care for people in prison, minimising moral injury and psychological distress in mental health staff. MEDICINE, SCIENCE, AND THE LAW 2020; 60:165-168. [PMID: 32462971 DOI: 10.1177/0025802420929799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Radha Kothari
- North London Forensic Services, Barnet, Enfield and Haringey Mental Health Trust, HMP/YOI Pentonville, UK
| | - Andrew Forrester
- Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, UK
- University of Manchester, UK
| | - Neil Greenberg
- Health Protection Research Unit in Emergency Preparedness and Respsonse, King's College London, UK
| | - Natasha Sarkissian
- North London Forensic Services, Barnet, Enfield and Haringey Mental Health Trust, HMP/YOI Pentonville, UK
| | - Derek K Tracy
- Cognition, Schizophrenia and Imaging Laboratory, Department of Psychosis Studies, the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, UK
- Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust, UK
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Prisoners in a pandemic: We should think about detainees during Covid-19 outbreak. Forensic Sci Int Synerg 2020; 2:162-163. [PMID: 32548576 PMCID: PMC7286952 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsisyn.2020.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
In Italy, where the Covid-19 emergency developed immediately after China, the spread of the pandemic has highlighted some unsolved problems inherent to the prison system. This theme is already, unfortunately, of distressing topicality. Among these, the complex balance between the security needs and the protection of the prisoner’s right to health deserves particular attention. The detainees, in fact, constitute a group particularly vulnerable to the spread of an infectious disease, both because they have an average level of health lower than that of the general population, and because they live forced in cramped, overcrowded, poorly ventilated environments, in which it is not always possible to observe the general hygiene rules. For these reasons, during the ongoing pandemic emergency, it could be even more difficult to concretely protect the right to health of this portion of the population.
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Bretaña NA, Gray RR, Cunningham EB, Betz-Stablein B, Ribeiro R, Graw F, Luciani F, Lloyd AR. Combined treatment and prevention strategies for hepatitis C virus elimination in the prisons in New South Wales: a modelling study. Addiction 2020; 115:901-913. [PMID: 31633853 DOI: 10.1111/add.14830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2019] [Revised: 07/10/2019] [Accepted: 09/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Australia is currently on track to meet the World Health Organization (WHO) global hepatitis C virus (HCV) elimination goals by 2030, reflecting universal subsidized access to testing and direct-acting antiviral (DAA) treatment. In New South Wales, DAA treatment in prisons has scaled-up substantially, with 1000 prisoners treated in 2017. However, HCV prevalence and incidence in this setting is high, which could undermine elimination efforts. This study aimed to test the preventative effects of DAA treatment scale-up, opiate substitution treatment (OST) and needle and syringe programme (NSP) strategies for prisons. DESIGN Modelling study using an individual-based mathematical model of a typical prison setting. The model was calibrated against Australian epidemiological data sets and executed in-prison events for each individual daily, including movements between prisons, changes in risk behaviour and uptake of prevention measures such as OST and NSP, as well as DAA treatment. Scenarios were projected from 2018 to 2030. SETTING New South Wales prisons. PARTICIPANTS New South Wales prisoners. MEASUREMENTS Variables including prison populations, prevalence and incidence rate were calculated. Prisoners were described by demographic characteristics, HCV infection history, risk behaviours and accessing treatment and prevention measures in varied security settings. FINDINGS Increasing the number of prisoners treated for HCV to 2000 annually was projected to reduce the HCV incidence rate to 8.69 [95% confidence interval (CI) = 8.17, 9.20] per 100 person-years (100 p.y.). Combined treatment and prevention strategies were necessary to reduce the projected incidence rate to 5.22 (95% CI = 5.13, 5.52) per 100 p.y. Considering the expected reductions in the prevalence of chronic HCV in the Australian community, incidence rate was predicted to drop to 0.93 (95% CI = 0.92, 0.98) per 100 p.y. by 2030. CONCLUSIONS This model, which simulates prison scenarios to inform Australia's national hepatitis C virus elimination efforts, suggests that continued direct-acting antiviral (coverage in the community combined with a moderate increase of direct-acting antiviral treatments in prisons, and introduction of improved harm reduction via opiate substitution treatment and/or needle and syringe programmes, makes hepatitis C virus elimination feasible in Australian prisons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil A Bretaña
- Viral Immunology Systems Program, Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Surveillance Evaluation and Research Program, Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Richard R Gray
- Surveillance Evaluation and Research Program, Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Evan B Cunningham
- Viral Hepatitis Clinical Research Program, Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Brigid Betz-Stablein
- Viral Immunology Systems Program, Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Ruy Ribeiro
- Theoretical Biology and Biophysics, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, NM, USA
| | - Frederik Graw
- Center for Modeling and Simulation in the Biosciences, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Fabio Luciani
- Viral Immunology Systems Program, Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Andrew R Lloyd
- Viral Immunology Systems Program, Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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HIV/tuberculosis/hepatitis C virus services for incarcerated populations in Azerbaijan and the Eastern Europe Central Asia region. Curr Opin HIV AIDS 2020; 14:66-70. [PMID: 30489347 DOI: 10.1097/coh.0000000000000513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The tide of HIV, hepatitis C virus (HCV) and drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB) is a challenge for the penitentiary system in Eastern Europe Central Asia (EECA) region. We have analyzed the existing services for incarcerated individuals with HIV, HCV and TB to assess the current situation in the EECA region. RECENT FINDINGS Because of the current criminal-legal system, key risk population with strong linkage to the blood-borne and airborne infections has a high proportion among prisoners. Management of these diseases includes a set of services, such as early detection, counseling, testing and treatment, prevention, harm reduction programme, wide educational and information efforts, and organization of continuity care after release. WHO has developed a set of targets, the only precise achievement of which will reduce the burden of these infections and eliminate them as a public health problem. SUMMARY It is necessary to closely monitor the delivery of HIV, HCV and TB care services in penitentiary system of the EECA countries. The comprehensive operational research will help to develop the most effective practices allowing to achieve the care provision for the entire contingent of the penitentiary system and its continuity in the civil sector. Sustainable and sufficient funding is required as well as enough attention to ensure healthcare services at an appropriate level in the penitentiary system.
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Wildeman C, Goldman AW, Wang EA. Age-Standardized Mortality of Persons on Probation, in Jail, or in State Prison and the General Population, 2001-2012. Public Health Rep 2019; 134:660-666. [PMID: 31603737 PMCID: PMC6832078 DOI: 10.1177/0033354919879732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The number of adults in the United States being held on probation-persons convicted of crimes and serving their sentence in the community rather than in a correctional facility-approached 4 million at the end of 2016 and continues to grow, yet little is known about the health and well-being of this population. We compared the standardized mortality ratios of persons on probation in the United States with persons in jail, persons in state prison, and the general US population. METHODS We used administrative data from 2001-2012 from the Bureau of Justice Statistics and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention WONDER database and indirect standardization techniques to compare the mortality rates of persons on probation in 15 states with the mortality rates of persons in jail, persons in state prison, and the general US population. We applied the age-specific mortality rates of 3 populations (general US population, persons in jail, and persons in state prison) to the age distribution of persons on probation to estimate standardized mortality ratios. RESULTS Persons on probation died at a rate 3.42 times higher than persons in jail, 2.81 times higher than persons in state prison, and 2.10 times higher than the general US population, after standardizing the age distribution of persons on probation relative to the other 3 groups. CONCLUSIONS Public health interventions should target persons on probation, who have received less attention from the public health community than persons serving sentences in jails and prisons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Wildeman
- Department of Policy Analysis and Management, Cornell University,
Ithaca, NY, USA
| | | | - Emily A. Wang
- Yale University, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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Opitz-Welke A, Lehmann M, Seidel P, Konrad N. Medicine in the Penal System. DEUTSCHES ARZTEBLATT INTERNATIONAL 2019; 115:808-814. [PMID: 30642429 DOI: 10.3238/arztebl.2018.0808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2018] [Revised: 02/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infectious diseases, substance dependencies, and dental diseases are the most important health problems affecting incarcerated persons. In Germany, for example, prisoners are 48 to 69 times more likely to be infected with the hepatitis C virus (HCV) than the general population, and 7 to 12 times more likely to be infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The prevalence of mental illnesses is also markedly higher in the incarcerated than in the general population. METHODS This review is based on pertinent publications retrieved by a selective search in two databases (PubMed and Google Scholar) for any of the terms "health care," "primary health care," "mental health care"; "infectious disease," "opioid maintenance treatment," and "severe mental disorder" in conjunction with "prison," "jail," "detention," and "incarceration." RESULTS Among prisoners in German prisons, approximately 20% consume heroin, 20-50% suffer from alcohol dependency and abuse, and 70-85% smoke. The prevalence of tuberculosis in German prisons in 2002 was 0.1%. The provision of needles to incarcerated persons has a preventive effect on infection with hepatitis C, hepatitis B, and HIV, yet programs of this type have been discontinued in most penal facilities. In a systematic review, psychotic disorders were found in 3.6% (95% confidence interval [CI]: [3.1; 4.2]) of male inmates and 3.9% [95% CI: 2.7; 5.0] of female inmates. 25% of incarcerated persons suffer from attention-deficit-hyperac- tivity disorder. Persons recently released from prison have an above average mortality, largely due to drug intoxication. CONCLUSION An analysis of medical prescribing data reveals deficiencies in the provision of HCV treatment to all affected persons and in the provision of substitution treatment to persons with opiate dependency. In view of the known risks associated with imprisonment, greater emphasis should be placed on the provision of treatment for infectious diseases, substance dependencies, and mental illness, both in prison and in outpatient care after release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette Opitz-Welke
- Prison Hospital Berlin, JVA Plötzensee, Berlin; Institute of Forensic Psychiatry, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin
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Management of Hepatitis C in Delaware Prisons: : Approaching Microenvironmental Eradication. Dela J Public Health 2019; 5:20-27. [PMID: 34467026 PMCID: PMC8396757 DOI: 10.32481/djph.2019.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The management of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection has been transformed due to the arrival of HCV-specific Direct-Acting Antivirals (DAAs), which are safer, more effective, and better tolerated than the interferon-based therapies that preceded them. Compared with community healthcare systems, many prison healthcare systems have been slower to adopt the routine use of HCV DAAs despite the fact that HCV infection disproportionately affects individuals in correctional institutions. In 2015, the Delaware Department of Correction (DDOC) launched a treatment program that prioritized treatment for patients who were at greatest risk of disease complications. To date, 327/345 (95%) of eligible current HCV patients have initiated DAA therapy. A total of 196/199 (98.4%) patients who have initiated treatment and who have post-treatment data available have achieved sustained virologic response, defined as undetectable HCV viral load 12 weeks after treatment. Applying a concept of microenvironmental eradication, it can reasonably be concluded that that DDOC is approaching this benchmark with regard to chronic HCV infection and will soon enter a “maintenance phase,” during which it will be feasible to treat new cases of HCV in real time. Correctional systems with significant numbers of untreated hepatitis C patients may want to consider implementing HCV treatment programs that focus on cost-effectiveness and prioritize treatment for patients who are at greatest risk of disease complications.
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Crespo J, Llerena S, Cobo C, Cabezas J, Cuadrado A. HCV Management in the Incarcerated Population: How Do We Deliver on This Important Front? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s11901-019-00472-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Tavoschi L, O'Moore É, Hedrich D. Challenges and opportunities for the management of infectious diseases in Europes' prisons: evidence-based guidance. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2019; 19:e253-e258. [PMID: 30902441 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(18)30756-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2018] [Revised: 11/07/2018] [Accepted: 11/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
People in prison have multiple complex health and social care needs. These are likely to be the result of a combination of overlapping, and sometimes interlinked, risk factors for infection, ill-health, and incarceration, such as problem drug use. Incarceration can represent a unique opportunity to make high-quality health care available to people in prison and to target socially deprived groups who are often medically underserved when living in the community they originate from. In recent years, international and European institutions have increasingly acknowledged the importance of treating prison health as an inseparable component of public health. However, numerous challenges hamper the successful implementation of such a concept, including the need for evidence-based decision making, intersectoral partnerships, and better monitoring systems. New initiatives are ongoing in the EU that might contribute to bring about positive changes, such as the publication of the first evidence-based public health guidance on prevention and control of communicable diseases in prison settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Tavoschi
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
| | | | - Dagmar Hedrich
- Public Health Unit, European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, Lisbon, Portugal
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Thomson N, Littlejohn M, Strathdee SA, Southby RF, Coghlan B, Rosenfeld JV, Galvani AP. Harnessing synergies at the interface of public health and the security sector. Lancet 2019; 393:207-209. [PMID: 30663581 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(18)32999-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2018] [Accepted: 11/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Thomson
- Security and Health Executive Leadership Institute and the Law Enforcement and Public Health Program, Nossal Institute for Global Health, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
| | - Mason Littlejohn
- Security and Health Executive Leadership Institute and the Law Enforcement and Public Health Program, Nossal Institute for Global Health, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Steffanie A Strathdee
- Department of Medicine, University of California School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Richard F Southby
- Milken Institute School of Public Health, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA; Security and Health Executive Leadership Institute and the Law Enforcement and Public Health Program, Nossal Institute for Global Health, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Benjamin Coghlan
- Health-Security Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Jeffrey V Rosenfeld
- The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia; F Edward Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of The Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Alison P Galvani
- Center for Infectious Disease Modeling and Analysis, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
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Kinner SA, Young JT. Understanding and Improving the Health of People Who Experience Incarceration: An Overview and Synthesis. Epidemiol Rev 2018; 40:4-11. [PMID: 29860342 PMCID: PMC5982728 DOI: 10.1093/epirev/mxx018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2017] [Accepted: 11/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The world prison population is growing at a rate that exceeds the rate of population growth. This issue of Epidemiologic Reviews comprises articles in which researchers summarize what is known about some of the key health issues facing people in prison, particularly in relation to human immunodeficiency virus and other blood-borne viral infections. A key recurring theme is that addressing the health needs of people in prison is important to reducing health inequalities at the population level—that prisoner health is public health. The reviews also highlight some critical evidence gaps, notably the lack of evidence from low- and middle-income countries, and the limited number of longitudinal studies in which health behaviors, health outcomes, or health service experiences after release from prison are documented. Despite growing evidence of the poor health of detained adolescents, none of the included reviews considered this population. Further research on the health of young people who cycle through juvenile detention should be a priority. Despite a rapidly growing literature on the health of people who experience incarceration, some critical health issues remain poorly understood, and there has been insufficient attention devoted to co-occurring health conditions and the consequent need for coordinated care. Key populations in custodial settings remain understudied, limiting capacity to develop targeted, evidence-based responses to their health needs. The quality of many studies is suboptimal, and although rigorous, independent research in correctional settings can be challenging, it is not impossible and is critical to laying the groundwork for evidence-based reform.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stuart A Kinner
- Centre for Adolescent Health, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Melbourne Australia
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne Australia
- Mater Research Institute-UQ, University of Queensland, Brisbane Australia
- Griffith Criminology Institute, Griffith University, Brisbane Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne Australia
- Correspondence to Stuart A. Kinner, Centre for Adolescent Health, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Royal Children’s Hospital, Flemington Road, Parkville VIC 3052 Australia (e-mail: )
| | - Jesse T Young
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne Australia
- Centre for Health Services Research, School of Population and Global Health, The University of Western Australia, Perth Australia
- National Drug Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth Australia
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Vroling H, Oordt-Speets AM, Madeddu G, Babudieri S, Monarca R, O'Moore E, Vonk Noordegraaf-Schouten M, Wolff H, Montanari M, Hedrich D, Tavoschi L. A systematic review on models of care effectiveness and barriers to Hepatitis C treatment in prison settings in the EU/EEA. J Viral Hepat 2018; 25:1406-1422. [PMID: 30187607 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.12998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2018] [Revised: 06/15/2018] [Accepted: 08/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis C prevalence in prison populations is much higher than in the community. Effective hepatitis C treatment within this population does not only have a direct individual health benefit, but may lead to substantial community dividend. We reviewed available evidence on hepatitis C treatment in prison settings, with a focus on the European Union/European Economic Area. A systematic review of the literature (PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane library) was performed and complemented with searches for conference abstracts and grey literature. Thirty-four publications were included reporting on the effectiveness, acceptability and economic aspects of hepatitis C virus treatment models of care to achieve treatment completion and sustained viral response in prison settings. Available evidence shows that hepatitis C treatment in prison settings is feasible and the introduction of direct-acting antivirals will most likely result in increased treatment completion and better clinical outcomes for the prison population, given the caveats of affordability and the need for increased funding for prison health, with the resulting benefits accruing mostly in the community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hilde Vroling
- Pallas Health Research and Consultancy B.V., Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Giordano Madeddu
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Sergio Babudieri
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Roberto Monarca
- Health Without Barriers - European Federation for Prison Health, Viterbo, Italy
| | | | | | - Hans Wolff
- Division of Prison Health, Geneva University Hospitals and University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Dagmar Hedrich
- European Monitoring Centre on Drugs and Drug Addiction, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Lara Tavoschi
- European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Translational Research and New technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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40
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Herce ME, Muyoyeta M, Topp SM, Henostroza G, Reid SE. Coordinating the prevention, treatment, and care continuum for HIV-associated tuberculosis in prisons: a health systems strengthening approach. Curr Opin HIV AIDS 2018; 13:492-500. [PMID: 30222608 PMCID: PMC7705648 DOI: 10.1097/coh.0000000000000505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To advance a re-conceptualized prevention, treatment, and care continuum (PTCC) for HIV-associated tuberculosis (TB) in prisons, and to make recommendations for strengthening prison health systems and reducing HIV-associated TB morbidity and mortality throughout the cycle of pretrial detention, incarceration, and release. RECENT FINDINGS Despite evidence of increased HIV-associated TB burden in prisons compared to the general population, prisoners face entrenched barriers to accessing anti-TB therapy, antiretroviral therapy, and evidence-based HIV and TB prevention. New approaches, suitable for the complexities of healthcare delivery in prisons, have emerged that may address these barriers, and include: novel TB diagnostics, universal test and treat for HIV, medication-assisted treatment for opioid dependence, comprehensive transitional case management, and peer navigation, among others. SUMMARY Realizing ambitious international HIV and TB targets in prisons will only be possible by first addressing the root causes of the TB/HIV syndemic, which are deeply intertwined with human rights violations and weaknesses in prison health systems, and, second, fundamentally re-organizing HIV and TB services around a coordinated PTCC. Taking these steps can help ensure universal access to comprehensive, good-quality, free and voluntary TB/HIV prevention, treatment, and care, and advance efforts to strengthen health resourcing, staffing, information management, and primary care access within prisons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael E Herce
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia (CIDRZ), Lusaka, Zambia
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Monde Muyoyeta
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia (CIDRZ), Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Stephanie M Topp
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Queensland, Australia
| | - German Henostroza
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Stewart E Reid
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia (CIDRZ), Lusaka, Zambia
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
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Treating HCV in a Captive Audience: Eradication Efforts in the Prison Microenvironment. Am J Gastroenterol 2018; 113:1585-1587. [PMID: 30038424 DOI: 10.1038/s41395-018-0201-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2018] [Accepted: 06/26/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Testing for and treating Hepatitis C (HCV) patients in the prison setting is effective in the short term to reducing the overall burden of HCV in the prison microenvironment, with growing evidence that such efforts could yield substantial overall benefits in the effort to eradicate HCV in society. However, rates of reinfection are as yet unknown.
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Chacowry Pala K, Baggio S, Tran NT, Girardin F, Wolff H, Gétaz L. Blood-borne and sexually transmitted infections: a cross-sectional study in a Swiss prison. BMC Infect Dis 2018; 18:539. [PMID: 30373535 PMCID: PMC6206665 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-018-3445-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2018] [Accepted: 10/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Incarcerated people carry a high burden of infection, including blood-borne diseases (BBDs). It is also known that one million people contract a sexually transmitted infection (STI) every day worldwide, which represents a global public health challenge. However, data regarding the prevalence of STIs and the risk factors among incarcerated populations are lacking. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and associated factors of BBDs and STIs among detainees in the largest pre-trial prison in Switzerland. Methods In a cross-sectional study conducted at the Champ-Dollon pre-trial prison, 273 male detainees answered a standardized questionnaire and were screened for syphilis, herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2), HIV, and hepatitis C (HCV). Prevalence rates and associations of BBDs and STIs with risk factors were computed. Results Most participants (90.9%) were migrants from outside Western Europe, and 5.9% were injecting drug users. HCV was diagnosed among 6.2% of participants (antibody prevalence). The prevalence of HCV was higher among injecting drug users (81.2%) than non-injectors (1.6%). The prevalence of HIV, syphilis, and HSV-2 was 0.4%, 1.1%, and 22.4%, respectively. HCV was associated with a history of injecting drug use and HSV-2 with a lower education level and being older than 26 years. Conclusions This study showed the infection prevalence of 2–9 times higher among detainees than in the Swiss community. It also illustrated that these infections are associated with sociodemographic and risk factors. Therefore, the prison environment offers an opportunity to strengthen infectious disease control programs targeting specific subgroups of at-risk people. Such programs would benefit both the prison population and broader society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Komal Chacowry Pala
- Division of Prison Health, Geneva University Hospitals, University of Geneva, Chemin de Champ-Dollon 22, 1241 Puplinge, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Stéphanie Baggio
- Division of Prison Health, Geneva University Hospitals, University of Geneva, Chemin de Champ-Dollon 22, 1241 Puplinge, Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Nguyen Toan Tran
- Division of Prison Health, Geneva University Hospitals, University of Geneva, Chemin de Champ-Dollon 22, 1241 Puplinge, Geneva, Switzerland.,Australian Centre for Public and Population Health Research, Faculty of Health, University of Technology, Sydney, Australia
| | - François Girardin
- Medical Direction and Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Toxicology Geneva University Hospitals, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Hans Wolff
- Division of Prison Health, Geneva University Hospitals, University of Geneva, Chemin de Champ-Dollon 22, 1241 Puplinge, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Laurent Gétaz
- Division of Prison Health, Geneva University Hospitals, University of Geneva, Chemin de Champ-Dollon 22, 1241 Puplinge, Geneva, Switzerland.,Division of Tropical and Humanitarian Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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Fazel S. Editorial: Synthesizing the Evidence on Prisoner Health-Taking Stock and Moving Forward. Am J Epidemiol 2018; 187:1137-1139. [PMID: 29718088 PMCID: PMC5982786 DOI: 10.1093/aje/kwx375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2017] [Accepted: 12/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Seena Fazel
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Warneford Hospital, Oxford United Kingdom
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44
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Felice AN. HCV infection and drug use in Italian detainees: results of validation of EQDP (European Questionnaire on Drug Use in Prison). ACTA BIO MEDICA : ATENEI PARMENSIS 2018; 89. [PMCID: PMC6502084 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v89i10-s.7976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: The aim of this paper is to describe the results of a survey conducted in Italy amongst detainees by administering a specific questionnaire (EQDP, European Questionnaire on Drug Use in Prison), in order to investigate drug use in prison, any sharing of used needles and, lastly, the degree of self-awareness regarding health (more specifically, in terms of HIV, HBV and HCV infection). Structure of the article: The article is split into three parts. The first provides an overview of the methodological guidelines for the EQDP, which were issued in March 2017 by the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction. The second describes the structure of the EQDP questionnaire (Italian version). The third provides the results of a survey conducted in Italy using this questionnaire and the health-related implications for the prison community, in particular regarding HCV, HIV and HBV. Results: The data were collected by the self-administration of the questionnaire to groups of a sample consisting of 40 male detainees under in normal prisons. In this type of custody, fewer subjects were substance abusers during previous prison terms than amongst subjects in open prisons. The most common forms of dependence (tobacco, alcohol, THC, cocaine, psychostimulants, hallucinogens, opioids, sedatives) detected were significantly different between the two types of imprisonment and they were easier to identify in the open-prison system. The analysis of the state of health with regard to the above viruses demonstrated that, in open-prison conditions, a higher percentage of subjects have been tested for HIV, HBV and HCV, whereas detainees in normal prison conditions were almost all unaware of their infection status and had a poorer awareness of their health in general. Conclusions:Health status (HBV, HCV, HIV) is not declared amongst normal detainees, who are less aware of their health conditions and receive less risk-reduction intervention. Amongst open-prison detainees, however, all substance users are subject to risk reduction interventions, which are efficacious in improving self-awareness in terms of a greater use of blood tests and treatments for infectious diseases. (www.actabiomedica.it)
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Nava Felice
- Correspondence: Felice Alfonso Nava Director U.O. Sanità Penitenziaria, Azienda ULSS 6 Euganea, Padova, Director Scientific Comittee FeDerSerD E-mail:
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