The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) revealed that heart attack has overtaken tuberculosis as the leading cause of death among persons deprived of liberty (PDLs).
Heart attack numero unong killer ng mga PDL - BuCor | RH 15 @JecelleRicafort, DZRH News#RapidoHatawBalita
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The BuCor's Health and Welfare Services report noted that 445 inmates died from acute myocardial infarction or heart attack between 2022 and 2025.
While tuberculosis remains a serious health threat in all operating prisons and Penal Farms due to overcrowding and poor ventilation, data show that more inmates are now experiencing other respiratory illnesses such as pneumonia and acute respiratory failure.
For the record, in NBP, 234 inmates died of pneumonia, 71 from acute respiratory failure, 65 from cerebrovascular accident or stroke, and 61 from chronic kidney disease.
Tuberculosis, which used to be the top killer in prison facilities, recorded 59 deaths in the same period. Other leading causes of death include electrolyte imbalance, sepsis, congestive heart failure, and anemia
BuCor emphasized that it continues to implement active tuberculosis management programs in coordination with government agencies and non-government organizations. These include TB screening for all newly committed inmates at the Reception and Diagnostic Centers, regular mass screenings, health education sessions, as well as the provision of medicines, vitamins, and nutritional supplements.
