Prison Health Study Wins International Award

The Health and Wellbeing of Finnish Prisoners (Wattu IV) 2023 study has received the International Corrections and Prisons Association (ICPA) Research Award for 2025.

The award-winning Wattu IV study provides a comprehensive overview of health and wellbeing among people living in prisons. It examines issues such as mental health, substance use, infectious diseases, social inclusion, and experiences of loneliness.

“This study reached an exceptional group of people who are almost entirely excluded from most services. It deepens our understanding of the challenges faced by those who are severely marginalized and what can be done to help them. It also ensures their voices are heard,” says leading researcher Mika Rautanen.

The findings have already been applied in prisons and prison healthcare. For example, practices related to ADHD identification and treatment, opioid substitution programs, and hepatitis C management have been updated following the publication of the study.

The award also brings greater international visibility to the research.

“This recognition highlights the success and significance of an exceptional research project. It is an important achievement for Finland and encourages us to use this knowledge to promote a safer society,” says Director Anneli Pouta.

The awarded study is the fourth in a series on prisoners’ health. The prize was presented on October 29 at the ICPA conference in Istanbul. Each year, the organization grants Correctional Excellence Awards in various categories for achievements that advance the field of corrections worldwide.

The study was conducted jointly by the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), Health Care Services for Prisoners, and the Prison and Probattion Service Finland.

More information

Health and wellbeing of prisoners: The Wattu IV Prison Population Study Finland

Contacts

Mika Rautanen
Research Manager
THL
[email protected]

Anneli Pouta
Director
THL
[email protected]