Speaking out to improve the health of inmates. Interview by Vivienne Heines.

Abstract

Prison public health is becoming increasingly important to our society as growing numbers of men and women are incarcerated and later released. Numerous studies indicate that the prison population has a higher risk of certain infectious diseases and a higher rate of mental illness than the general population. Two community leaders, Dr Melanie Spector in the area of public health and Judge Steven Leifman in the judicial system, have addressed the vital issues of women's health and mental illness, respectively. Their efforts have had a positive impact both on prisoners themselves and on the overall health of their communities.