Jail and Prison Populations, Epidemiology of HIV/AIDS

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is the virus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and can lead to a diminished immune system – opening one up to the risk of developing opportunistic infections. Individuals in jail or prison have higher rates of HIV, and HIV and incarceration share many risk factors (e.g., illicit substance use). Often jails and prisons are thought of as synonymous, but it is important to note that there are important differences. Jails are facilities in which individuals are housed while either serving short-term sentences (typically no longer than one year) or are being detained pre-trial. In contrast, prisons house those who are incarcerated for longer time periods (e.g., greater than a 1 year).

Duke Scholars

Author Lauren Brinkley-Rubinstein Population Health Sciences