Tear gas deployment in women's prisons, particularly in Texas, has become a punitive response to minor infractions. Guards often use oleoresin capsicum in enclosed spaces, impacting the health of women more adversely. This chemical weapon, banned in warfare, causes immediate suffering such as burning skin and respiratory distress. Prolonged exposure leads to significant health concerns, with studies indicating it affects women's reproductive health more severely. Reports show abnormal menstrual changes in a considerable number of affected individuals, highlighting a dangerous disregard for women's health in these environments.
Within seconds, my eyes, throat, and skin started burning. Women began screaming, coughing, and vomiting. In these dilapidated buildings without adequate ventilation, the gas lingers for hours.
Guards deploy it at close range in enclosed spaces, against policy, against humanity. They gas entire housing units to punish one person's 'noncompliance.'
Studies have found that women experience more serious reactions to tear gas exposure, particularly impacting reproductive health, with nearly 900 people reporting abnormal menstrual changes.
This chemical weapon - banned in warfare by the Chemical Weapons Convention - affects women's bodies differently than men's.
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