Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors for Inguinal Hernia among Prisoners Confined in Prisons of Punjab

Objective: To determine the burden and associated risk factors of inguinal hernia among prisoners of Punjab. Methods: A case control study was conducted, including all willing hernia patients (n=143) and age matched 143 healthy controls. A structured interview questionnaire was developed to collect elicit data on socio-demographic, potential risk factors and physical measurements. Results: A total of 208 cases of inguinal hernia were recruited for this study. Prevalence was about 4 per 1000 population. Their mean age was 39 years (rang = 16-75 years). Fifty six percent cases entered with inguinal hernia and 44% developed inside prisons. Average time a prisoner patient living in prison with hernia was 47 months. Independent risk factors for inguinal hernia were rural background (OR = 1.7), poor education status (OR = 1.8), lifting heavy weights/mechanical work (OR = 3.2) and strain to pass urine (OR = 4.6). Obesity (BMI > 30) (OR = 0.36) and waist more than 102 cm (OR = 0.37) were protective. Conclusions: Prevalence of Inguinal hernia was high among prisoners as the they have to wait for long periods for repair. Therefore, to avoid unwanted emergencies early repair of hernia cases is recommended.