Incarceration is a mechanism to punish criminal offenses, but it can affect the health and well-being of those incarcerated, those with a history of incarceration, and their families and communities. When compared to the general population, men and women with a history of incarceration are in worse mental and physical health. Studies have shown that, people who are incarcerated are more likely to have high blood pressure, asthma, cancer, arthritis, and infectious diseases, such as tuberculosis, hepatitis C, and HIV. Children are especially at risk of negative effects related to parental incarceration (Healthy People 2030).

Considerations for Equitable Approaches: The United States has the highest number of people incarcerated and one of the highest rates of incarceration in the world (World Prison Brief). There are differences in the implementation of criminal justice policy including rates at which some racial and ethnic groups are arrested, convicted, and incarcerated for criminal offenses (Healthy People 2030). For example, Black and Hispanic people are disproportionality arrested and convicted of offenses. People with lower levels of education also have higher rates of incarceration. The number of older adults (ages 50 years and above) in U.S. prisons is growing, which may impact the types of services needed for the incarcerated population (Healthy People 2030).

Inclusive Language Recommendations. Recommendations for more inclusive language include utilizing person-first language such as “people who are incarcerated or detained” or “people who were formerly incarcerated” rather than “inmate” or “detainee,” which can dehumanize those who are being referred to (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).