Newcomers to Canada are generally healthier than the average Canadian, in what is known as the “healthy immigrant effect.” This health advantage is greater for some ethnic communities, ages, and genders than others, and some groups of newcomers are particularly less likely to have good health than their Canadian counterparts, including women’s maternal health and mental health, and refugees’ maternal and infant health.

The healthy immigrant effect also tends to diminish over time, with the health of newcomer populations tending to decline and converge towards the Canadian average. The Canadian Medical Association’s clinical guidelines for immigrants and refugees note that forced migration, low income, and limited proficiency in English or French increase the risk of a decline in health and should be considered in the assessment and delivery of preventive care.

Learn more: Newcomer Health Care: Access and Navigation; Issue 28