Health Harms Related to Incarceration
Men and women with a history of incarceration are in worse mental and physical health compared to the general population. Data from the Bureau of Justice Statistics found that in 2011, 44 percent of people who are incarcerated had a mental health disorder. Studies have shown that when compared to the general population, people of both sexes who are incarcerated are more likely to have high blood pressure, asthma, cancer, arthritis, and infectious diseases, such as tuberculosis, hepatitis C, and HIV.
[From a literature summary produced for Healthy People 2030]
The Carceral Health Equity Workgroup promotes the well-being of people incarcerated in response to the health harms posed by the carceral system. Workgroup members provide advice, insights, and information to help the Washington Department of Health build public health strategies to ensure that those incarcerated or detained receive equitable, comprehensive, culturally appropriate, and compassionate support for their health and well-being. The workgroup centers the voices of those currently and formerly incarcerated in all of its work with a focus on anti-racism. By addressing health disparities and championing the human rights and dignity of all those affected by incarceration, we strive to create a more just and inclusive society.
How to join
Workgroup membership is open to all who are interested. There is no time limit for participation and individuals can enter and leave based on their availability. To join our work group, please fill out the following interest form: The Carceral Health Equity Workgroup Interest Form (smartsheet.com). One of our workgroup hosts will follow up to learn more about your interests and share more about our work.
Meeting information
Our meetings are on the second Tuesday of each month from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. Compensation of $50/hour is available for those whose organizations are not already paying them to participate. Compensation can be direct deposited or provided in the form of an e-gift card. Our goal is to make meetings accessible to all. Write Community.Collaborative@doh.wa.gov and let us know if you have interpretation, ASL, closed captioning or other accessibility needs.
