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HIV seropositivity in a Yugoslav prison population
Z Radovanovic1, A Prelic, D Pavicic
1Institute of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Belgrade, Yugoslavia.
Journal of Hygiene, Epidemiology, Microbiology, and Immunology
|January 1, 1990
Summary
In Yugoslavia, an estimated 3000 individuals have HIV, primarily intravenous drug users. Researchers advocate for HIV-negative prisoners to have the choice to share cells with other HIV-negative inmates.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- An estimated 3000 individuals in Yugoslavia may be infected with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).
- Intravenous (I.V.) drug users represent the most significantly affected demographic.
- HIV seropositivity rates among imprisoned drug users in Belgrade are nearing 50%.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address the high prevalence of HIV among a vulnerable prison population.
- To propose a measure for protecting HIV-seronegative individuals within correctional facilities.
- To advocate for the rights of HIV-seronegative inmates to choose cellmates.
Main Methods:
- The study focuses on the epidemiological data of HIV prevalence in Yugoslavia.
- It considers the challenges of controlling involuntary homosexual contact in prisons.
- It advocates for voluntary or on-request screening for HIV status.
Main Results:
- HIV prevalence is exceptionally high among imprisoned drug users in Belgrade, approaching 50%.
- Controlling non-consensual homosexual encounters in prison settings is deemed impractical.
- A significant portion of the prison population is at risk due to HIV prevalence.
Conclusions:
- There is a moral imperative for society to protect the health of incarcerated individuals.
- HIV-seronegative inmates should have the right to choose to share cells with other HIV-seronegative individuals.
- This policy aims to mitigate HIV transmission risks within the prison environment.