Banca de QUALIFICAÇÃO: GABRIELA ASSUNÇÃO DA COSTA MAFRA SOUZA

Uma banca de QUALIFICAÇÃO de MESTRADO foi cadastrada pelo programa.
STUDENT : GABRIELA ASSUNÇÃO DA COSTA MAFRA SOUZA
DATE: 26/06/2026
TIME: 08:30
LOCAL: Google Meet
TITLE:

WORKING IN PRISON: PREVALENCE OF CHRONIC DISEASES AND HOW THEY ARE MANAGED AMONG INCARCERATED WORKERS IN RIO GRANDE DO NORTE

KEY WORDS:

Keywords: Prisoners. Public Health. Chronic Disease. Prison health care. Workers.

PAGES: 30
BIG AREA: Ciências da Saúde
AREA: Saúde Coletiva
SUBÁREA: Saúde Pública
SUMMARY:

Objective: To analyze the prevalence of chronic diseases among male and female inmates in correctional facilities in the state of Rio Grande do Norte, characterizing the sociodemographic and occupational profile of this population and the context in which they cope with the health conditions affecting them. Method: A cross-sectional observational epidemiological study conducted in four prisons in Rio Grande do Norte: João Chaves Prison Complex (women’s unit), Alcaçuz State Penitentiary, Parnamirim State Penitentiary, and Ceará Mirim Public Jail. A total of 118 incarcerated individuals who were engaged in institutionalized work activities during the data collection period participated. Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire, specifically designed for this study, organized into four thematic sections: (I) personal and professional characteristics; (II) characterization of chronic diseases by organ system; (III) impact on quality of life; and (IV) support network. Data collection took place between October 2025 and February 2026, in person, during daytime hours. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including calculations of absolute and relative frequencies, measures of central tendency and dispersion, and presented in tables and graphs. Results: The sample consisted predominantly of males (n = 91.5%). The most common age group was 30 to 49 years (53.4%). The most common occupations were maintenance (23.7%), sewing workshop (16.1%), and kitchen work (10.2%). Regarding medical history and risk factors, 75.2% reported alcohol use, 36.8% reported illicit substance use prior to incarceration, and 61.5% reported a family history of chronic diseases. The prevalence of at least one chronic disease was 61.0%. The systems with the highest prevalence were the respiratory (29.7%) and cardiovascular (28.0%) systems. Among the most prevalent specific conditions, the following stood out: hypertension (25.4%), a history of COVID-19 (11.0%), and a history of tuberculosis (9.3%). Regarding medication use, 42.7% of participants were on continuous medication or therapy. Despite the high prevalence of chronic diseases, 80.3% of participants considered themselves healthy. Conclusion: The findings reveal a high burden of chronic diseases among incarcerated men and women in Rio Grande do Norte, particularly respiratory and cardiovascular conditions, within a context marked by a significant history of psychoactive substance use, low educational attainment, and limited access to health services before and during incarceration. The coexistence of multimorbidity in more than one-third of the sample, coupled with the paradox of positive self-perceived health, points to the need for specific surveillance, screening, and longitudinal care strategies for this population. The data reinforce the urgency of strengthening the National Policy on Comprehensive Health Care for Persons Deprived of Liberty and of incorporating the dimension of work and its risks into prison health initiatives, recognizing workers in situations of deprivation of liberty as individuals with their own health needs and guaranteed rights.

COMMITTEE MEMBERS:
Interna - 2568454 - ELISANGELA FRANCO DE OLIVEIRA CAVALCANTE
Interna - 421717 - MARIA ANGELA FERNANDES FERREIRA
Interna - 3254478 - TAMIRES CARNEIRO DE OLIVEIRA MENDES
Externo ao Programa - 1204045 - JOSE ADAILTON DA SILVA - UFRN