Survey on the health conditions of incarcerated women

ABSTRACT Aim: To evaluate the socio-demographic profile and health conditions of incarcerated women. Method: Cross-sectional study with 1,013 women conducted in female penitentiary. Results: The average age of 30.8 years; low level of education; Papanicolaou test coverage and vaccination; high prevalence of obesity; Common Mental Disorder; and abusive use of tobacco. Considerations: Health promoting actions, disease prevention and attention to grievances must be developed with this population, as well as actions towards social recovery, such as study and work. Research development in closed institutions allows for expanding knowledge and establishing partnerships between the society and the prison sector.