1,499 inmates participated in the study, and three out of four entered with problematic substance use.
Inmates have a greater need for treatment
Compared to the general population, people who enter prisons have more mental health problems, more physical health problems, and more problematic substance use, including addiction. Ideally, their sentences could be opportunities for them to access health care and learn and develop healthy behaviors. Prisons should therefore be health-promoting, such as by facilitating access to physical activities and allowing free exercise.
More exercise in prison
Inmates with problematic substance use were much more likely to be changing their behaviors. After an average of one year in prison, they doubled the amount their exercised per week.
Use of smoke and snus
However, even with these positive changes, the majority continued smoking, and snus became more common.
So while prisoners appear capable of adopting exercise, they will likely benefit from structured interventions to help them cut down on nicotine products.
It is also crucial that behavior changes “stick” after release from prison. Exercise in particular can be a crucial tool to resist drug cravings, while cigarettes may increase susceptibility to relapse.
Read the full article here