Migration and Health

Health matters associated with migration may be crucial public health challenges, with a possible impact on both the health and well-being of migrants and host populations. Migrants may remain among the most vulnerable members of society when faced with xenophobia; discrimination; poor living, housing, and working conditions; and inadequate access to health services and other basic services. To effectively protect people on the move and improve their health and well-being, a deep understanding of the drivers of migration, the contextual factors, normative, policy, and legal frameworks, as well as the main problems faced by migrants in accessing care, is vital. This will allow the implementation of responses which effectively address their needs. Evidence shows that an inclusive public health approach is the most appropriate regarding cost-effectiveness and health outcomes. The purpose of this chapter is to reflect on the basic concepts of migration and health, highlighting its importance to the global health agenda.