Mapping the global burden, risk factors, and health system responses to non-communicable diseases in prisons: a global scoping review protocol

To systematically map and synthesize the current state of knowledge on the burden, risk factors, and health system responses to NCDs among prisoners globally, and identify documented gaps in service delivery, policy, and research. Chronic disease management in prisons remains a major challenge, particularly in resource-limited settings where infrastructure, workforce, and financing are inadequate. Evidence on effective interventions is sparse, and the burden of NCDs among incarcerated populations is poorly understood. Synthesizing diverse sources of literature offers prison health services an opportunity to identify context-appropriate strategies. Studies published in English between 2015 and 24 May 2026 that reported on NCD prevalence, risk factors, or health system responses in prison or post-release populations will be included in the Scoping review. All study designs (quantitative, qualitative, mixed methods, and relevant grey literature) addressing incarcerated adults and youth were eligible. The selection of the time period was in relation to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) which gained recognition after 2015. This Scoping review will follow the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Scoping review methodology and PRISMA SCR reporting guidelines. Searches will be conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, and Google Scholar, supplemented by backward/forward citation tracking. Two reviewers will independently screen records and extract data using a standardized JBI framework. Evidence matrices will be used to compare study characteristics, geographic distribution, and service responses. Open Science Framework DOI: https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/UESVQ