Deaths in custody The risk factors are known, but public policy is lagging behind

摘要

The excess risk of death for offenders is a public health concern. International comparisons of deaths in penal institutions published by the Council of Europe show wide variability in rates of overall mortality and suicide, sentencing policy, and rates of incarceration between countries.1 However, rates of suicide are significantly higher in prison populations than in free living populations worldwide.2'5 These findings suggest that referral to prison may not be appropriate for some people and identify .gaps in knowledge for healthcare professionals and policy makers.