Publication: A review of HIV in prisons in Nepal
Date
2009
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Kathmandu University
Abstract
Abstract
Background: HIV in prisons is a serious public health concern. People in prison are at risk of contracting HIV through
injecting drug use, unprotected sex and tattooing. However, most countries have largely neglected HIV prevention and
care in prisons.
Objectives: The aim of this study is to review HIV prevention and care in Nepal’s prisons
Materials and methods: This was carried out by Systematic review of published and grey literature.
Results: Nepal’s National HIV Strategy acknowledges the importance of prisons in broader HIV prevention efforts.
However, prison conditions are poor and there is no accurate information regarding HIV prevalence or risk behaviours
among prisoners. HIV prevention interventions have largely been limited to ad hoc training workshops. Antiretroviral
treatment is not available to HIV infected prisoners.
Conclusion: There is recognition in Government policy documents that prisons must be involved in efforts to stem the
HIV epidemic. However, HIV prevention and care remains largely non-existent in Nepal’s prisons. Efforts to obtain
external funding to initiate and maintain programs such as drug dependency treatment and condom distribution are
required. Attention could also be given to introducing alternatives to incarceration for less serious offenders and drug
dependent offenders.
Key words: HIV, prison, Nepal
Description
Dolan K1, Larney S1
1 Program of International Research and Training, National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Australia