Release from prison can be hazardous to the health of inmates.
Young inmates are at risk for death from:
(1) drug overdose
(2) physical violence, especially if motivated by a desire for revenge
(3) suicide
(4) motor vehicle accidents
(5) other accidents
Drug overdose is a real hazard in drug users, especially during the first 2 weeks after release. A prisoner often will lose tolerance to drugs while in prison, and a dose that was safe before prison may be lethal after release.
Older former inmates are at risk for:
(1) cancer
(2) cardiovascular disease
Other diseases of concern:
(1) diabetes mellitus
(2) HIV
(3) viral hepatitis
(4) COPD
(5) alcohol-related diseases
Inmates should be informed of the hazards they face before they are released.
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