addicts (Califano, 2011). Prisons also pose a risk for HIV transmission since they are overcrowded and have an atmosphere of violence, fear, sexual tensions, and boredom. High-risk sexual behaviors and drug use as well as other practices such tattooing are common and each of these activities risk of HIV transmission (Avert, 2011).
Effects of AIDS and Drug Addiction on Prison Populations
Effects of drug addiction on prison populations include increased rates of HIV infections compared to the general population. Without adequate testing and treatment, this leads to increased rates of AIDS in this population. Rates are disproportionately higher for African American inmates and females and many cased go undetected. Active AIDS cases require expensive medical treatment which poses increased costs to the prison ("Prisons," 2011). As AIDS is increased in prison populations due to drug use and increases in HIV, this adds to the HIV/AIDS epidemic as prisoners are released into the community. Prisoner
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