Study of Skin Diseases in Incumbent Prison Inmates

Abstract

Introduction: Dermatological diseases in prison is still an under-researched field and the importance of identifying and treating them promptly has recently been recognized. Skin diseases are common among prisoners especially those from developing countries due to the substandard living conditions such as overcrowding with hot and humid environment. Aims and Objectives: Our study aimed to estimate the occurrence of various dermatological diseases among prison inmates. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cohort study of inmates at Nashik Central Jail, Maharashtra was done for a duration of 6 months between February to July 2018. Results: Out of 3609 inmates, 532 inmates (461 males and 71 females) aged 23–62 years were suffering from various skin diseases. Most common skin disease were infectious dermatoses (72.18%, n=384). Amongst infections, fungal contributed to maximum cases (85.93%, n=330) of cases followed by bacterial infection (13.84%, n=53). Infestations were second most common skin disease (20.86%, n=111). Rest were less 7% of cases. Conclusion: Prison inmates are prone to develop various skin infections and infestations due to poor standard of living. They are often neglected & may pose a danger of spreading skin infections among other prison inmates & in the community eventually. Appropriate and adequate health policies can prevent skin disease in prison.