Social Vulnerabilities of HIV-Positive Prisoners in District Jail Malir, Karachi

Abstract

This article investigates the social problems faced by HIV-positive inmates at the District Prisons & Correctional Facility Malir, Karachi. Utilizing a mixed-method approach, data were collected through an indigenously developed interview tool from a sample of 64 out of 110 identified HIV-positive inmates. Findings revealed that the average inmate age was 32.7 years, with most residing in low-income areas of Karachi. Ethnic diversity was evident, and educational attainment was low, with over half having no formal education. Most inmates worked as laborers prior to incarceration and lived in joint family systems. Substance abuse was highly prevalent, particularly methamphetamine use, with 63% reporting injectable drug use. Despite harsh prison conditions, including overcrowding, nearly all inmates received HIV treatment. Awareness of their HIV status prior to incarceration was relatively high (56.25%). The paper highlights significant socioeconomic and health challenges faced by HIV-positive inmates, underscoring the need for targeted interventions and prison health reforms.

Keywords: HIV-Positive Inmates, Social Problems, Substance Abuse, Prison Conditions, Healthcare Access, Socioeconomic Challenges