Health situation of population deprived of liberty in Colombia. A systematic review of the literature

Abstract

People deprived of liberty (PDL) are subject to adverse conditions to the health and structural problems in the different prisons and penitentiary institutions (PPI). This make difficult to find a solution. Objective: To analyze the scientific evidence required to understand the health situation among the IP in our country. Method: A systematic review of health research carried out in the Colombian prisons was developed using some databases and grey literature compilations based on the following keywords: “prisoners”/“prisons”, “health”, “health situation”, “life conditions”, “health problems”. This work addressed topics concerning the infrastructure, the main health problems (both in general and special populations), and the determining factors wherever described. Results: Scientific literature allowing understanding the health situation of PDL. Most of the studies were related to mental health problems and infectious disease (TB and STDs). Official reports showed that the PDL underwent unfavorable conditions that compromise their health. Conclusions: In our country the scant scientific research limits the evidence required to implement public policies appropriate to improve the IP health situation. On the other hand, the official reports have not meant a positive impact on their health.