Physiological Parameters and Nutritional Status of Prison Inmates at Kirikiri Correctional Facility, Lagos State

Prison populations represent a physiologically vulnerable group, often characterised by nutritional deprivation and elevated risk of non-communicable and communicable diseases. This study assessed physiological parameters and nutritional status among inmates at Kirikiri Medium Security Correctional Facility in Lagos State, South West Nigeria. One hundred and twenty male inmates were recruited through stratified sampling. Anthropometric measurements, blood pressure, resting heart rate, haemoglobin, fasting blood glucose, and nutritional intake were assessed using validated tools and laboratory methods. Duration of incarceration, dietary intake frequency, and access to physical activity were documented. Descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation were applied. Results showed that 29.2 percent of inmates were underweight and 18.3 percent were overweight, reflecting a dual nutritional burden. Anaemia was detected in 36.7 percent of participants. Hypertension was identified in 22.5 percent. Daily caloric intake fell below recommended levels for 58 percent of inmates. Longer incarceration duration was associated with worse nutritional and haematological outcomes. The study concludes that physiological health status is significantly compromised among inmates at Kirikiri, necessitating urgent nutritional and medical interventions. Dietary standard improvements, regular physiological health screening, and physical activity programmes are recommended for correctional facilities in Lagos State. Keywords: prison inmates, nutritional status, anaemia, blood pressure, Kirikiri.