Addressing Substance Use Disorders among Male Prisoners: Short Commentary

The issue of substance use disorders among incarcerated individuals is a complex and pressing concern within the criminal justice system. The article from the Herald “The Management of Adult Male Prisoners with Substance Use Disorders Presenting with Suspected Internal Concealment of Illicit Drugs: Challenges, Clinical Implications, and Best Practice Response “delves into the specific challenges faced in managing adult male prisoners who present with suspected internal concealment of illicit drugs [1]. This practice, known colloquially as “body packing” or “body stuffing,” poses significant clinical and operational challenges for prison healthcare providers. One of the primary challenges highlighted in the article is the difficulty in accurately diagnosing and treating individuals who engage in internal concealment of drugs. The secretive nature of this behavior often means that prisoners may not disclose their drug use, leading to missed opportunities for intervention and treatment. Moreover, the health risks associated with internal concealment, including the potential for drug toxicity or overdose, further underscore the importance of developing effective clinical responses within correctional settings [2].