Coronary Artery Disease in Offender Populations

Abstract

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a significant health problem and global burden. Research on antisocial behaviors has identified some groups of offenders as vulnerable to the development of cardiovascular disorders. This article reviews the relationship between criminal offending and CAD, with a particular emphasis on incarcerated populations. Existing research supports this link, with incarceration demonstrating substantial associations with numerous cardiac risk factors, development of cardiac problems, and cardiovascular disease mortality. Comprehensive multicomponent prevention programs, while often available in the community, have received little research attention in prison settings. In addition to clarifying the relationship between incarceration and heart disease, this article reviews various treatment and management responses made by prison officials.