Endocrine Abstracts

Introduction: The prison environment is a space that involves certain restrictions on prisoners. The diabetic subject requires, however, special attention. The aim of this work is to evaluate the impact of this medium on the glycemic balance and the metabolic profile.

Patients and method: Descriptive cross-sectional study carried out on a health campaign day in a penitentiary center, in the men’s sector, and concerned patients with known diabetes from the institution.

Results: The prevalence of diabetes was 12%, diagnosed in a penitentiary environment in 3 cases. The average age was 42.3 years and type 2 diabetes was found in 93.1% of cases. The average duration of diabetes was 6.15 years, 76.4% of patients were on oral treatment. Mean HbA1c was 8.2%. The mean capillary blood glucose level on examination was 1.92 g/L and pathological waist circumference in 32% of cases. Hypertension and dyslipidemia were associated in 26% of cases. Patients complied with the rules of hygiene and diet (physical activity and diet) in 36% of cases.

Discussion: In prison, the health care system deals with a vulnerable population. In our study, diabetes was more common than in the general population. The exclusive male sex is a cardiovascular risk factor in its own right. The detention environment involves limited physical activity and imposed nutrition. However, the institution tries to encourage a healthy lifestyle. Also, access to care and treatment is available and provided by the penitentiary pharmacy.