Heart attack now top jail death cause, surpassing TB

The Bureau of Corrections reported that myocardial infarction, or heart attack, is now the leading cause of death among persons deprived of liberty (PDLs), surpassing tuberculosis.

According to BuCor data from 2022 to 2025, there were 445 deaths due to heart attacks compared to only 59 from pulmonary tuberculosis.

While TB remains a significant health concern in overcrowded prison settings, other respiratory illnesses such as pneumonia and acute respiratory failure are now more prevalent causes of mortality.

Other top causes of death at national penitentiaries include cerebrovascular accident, chronic kidney disease, electrolyte imbalance, sepsis, congestive heart failure, and anemia.

BuCor continues to manage tuberculosis through established programs in partnership with various organizations, including TB screening for new PDLs, regular mass screenings, health education sessions, and the provision of anti-TB medicines and nutritional supplements.