Immigration and Acculturation: Impact on Health and Well-Being of Immigrants

Curr Hypertens Rep. 2018 Jul 3;20(8):70. doi: 10.1007/s11906-018-0872-0.

Abstract

Among migrants who arrived in the USA and Europe, communicable diseases such as dermatologic, gastrointestinal, and respiratory infections are frequent; non-communicable diseases including chronic diseases such as hypertension and diabetes, and vaccine-preventable diseases are also prevalent. Refugees are often not up to date on routine immunizations and screenings for chronic diseases and cancer. In addition, many immigrants have trauma-related mental health problems, which are often not addressed by the healthcare systems where they reside. Determining the healthcare needs of specific immigration groups should lead to the establishment of evidence-based guidelines for providing screening and healthcare services to immigrant populations, for the benefit of the individuals concerned, as well as the host countries.

Keywords: Cardiovascular health; Healthcare screening; Immigrant health; Refugee health.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acculturation
  • Emigrants and Immigrants*
  • Emigration and Immigration
  • Global Health
  • Health Status Disparities*
  • Humans
  • Mass Screening* / methods
  • Mass Screening* / organization & administration
  • Mental Health*
  • Needs Assessment
  • Refugees*