There were 51 prison deaths in 2025, down 20% from 64 in the previous year.

https://www.sps.gov.uk/sites/default/files/2026-05/DIC%202025%20(Quarter%204).xlsx

The share of prison deaths due to aging (cancers, heart disease, circulatory issues, and respiratory conditions) has been increasing over time in both England & Wales and Scotland. This is driven by the steadily aging prison population.

https://www.bmj.com/content/384/bmj.q198

Drug-related deaths in Scottish prisons have shown a general upward trend since the mid-2010s. They remain a significant but not dominant cause compared to natural/health conditions.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c9qw2n3gzzzo