Which of the following best explains why the infection rate of HIV and tuberculosis (TB) is so high among persons who are incarcerated? (Select all that apply.)

Question

a. Fecal oral transmission because of lack of cleanliness and hygiene among inmates
b. Ignorance as to how infectious diseases are transmitted
c. Engagement in tattooing, drug use, and unprotected sexual intercourse
d. Lack of access to health care while incarcerated
e. Overcrowding, poor ventilation, and constant change in the population
f.
Poor nutrition and lack of exercise while incarcerated

Answer 1

ANS: C, E
The high rate of some infections such as HIV in this population is associated with high-risk behaviors common among inmates, including current and previous drug use, unprotected sexual intercourse, and tattooing. The rate of TB infection in correctional facilities is related to overcrowding, poor ventilation, and rapid movement of inmates into and out of jail, all conducive to the spread of the disease. Most prisoners receive a health screening at admission. Prisoners have a constitutional right to receive adequate and timely health care. Adequate food and exercise are available as the goal is to ensure a safe, secure, and humane environment for inmates. Fecal oral transmission is not related to the spread of HIV or tuberculosis. The prison and legal system are aware of how these diseases are transmitted, but some of these high-risk behaviors that this population engage in occur when they are not incarcerated.