Supporting the Respiratory Health of Migrants and Refugees

Abstract

Migrants and refugees are at risk of developing acute and chronic respiratory diseases at their destination countries. Yet, people from these populations are also least likely to access care within the current health care system across the world. Although biological, psychological, and social factors play a role in influencing risk of respiratory diseases among these populations, the influences from cultural differences on health behaviors cannot be ignored. Cultural differences are influential in affecting an individual's level of health literacy. Health professionals can contribute to the provision of equitable care to diverse communities through addressing issues related to linguistic and cultural differences.

Keywords: Cultural safety; Health equity; Health literacy; Migrant; Refugee; Respiratory disease.