Health Status of Prison Inmates: A Qualitative Study of Akuse Prison in The Lower Manya Krobo Municipality in The Eastern Region of Ghana

Abstract

Background: The health status of prison inmates in Ghana is a pressing concern, as prisons fail to provide basic living conditions and adequate healthcare, leading to a higher burden of communicable and non-communicable diseases, mental health issues, and substance misuse. This neglect has severe consequences for inmates’ physical and mental well-being, perpetuating cycles of suffering and impeding rehabilitation.This study assessed the health status of prison inmates in Akuse Prison, Eastern Region, Ghana, to inform policymakers and healthcare providers about the need for healthcare services and systems in prisons. Methodology: The study employed a qualitative research method, specifically a case study. A descriptive approach using face-to-face in-depth interviews was used for the data collection. A purposive sampling technique was employed to select participants. Data was analyzed using thematic analysis, where emerging themes and patterns were identified and coded. Data was triangulated to ensure consistency and validity. Results:. Findings from the study revealed that the living spaces of the inmates were not clean enough, which could be attributed a lot of their ill-health conditions to the unhygienic environment they live in. Another major finding was on the overcrowding of inmates within very limited space. It was further noted through the responses provided by the inmates that their feeding is nothing to write home about. The food provided to them has little or no nutritional value, resulting in several perceived disease conditions such as rashes and weight loss. Furthermore, it was observed that most of the inmates complained about their mental health conditions, which is negatively affecting their well-being in prison. vii Conclusion: In conclusion, the study highlighted the dire health conditions faced by inmates in the Akuse Local Prisons, driven by poor sanitation, overcrowding, inadequate healthcare, and insufficient nutrition. These factors collectively create a hazardous environment that significantly deteriorates the physical and mental health of inmates. These findings suggest the need to implement targeted interventions to enhance the health and well-being of inmates in the Akuse prisons.