Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository

Thesis Format

Integrated Article

Degree

Master of Science

Program

Epidemiology and Biostatistics

Supervisor

Piotr, Wilk

2nd Supervisor

Saverio, Stranges

Co-Supervisor

Abstract

Background: Multimorbidity is a growing public health concern and is associated with reduced quality of life and adverse health outcomes, yet investigation of multimorbidity among the immigrant population is limited in the Canadian context.

Objectives: To assess the prevalence and correlates of multimorbidity among immigrants to Canada 18 years of age or older.

Methods: Data from the 2007 to 2014 Canadian Community Health Survey linked to the Longitudinal Immigration Database were used. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics and multivariable regressions.

Results: Among immigrants, 3.5% had multimorbidity. Immigration factors such as recency of immigration, birth region, immigration category as well as age, marital status, income, employment, physical activity and smoking status were associated with multimorbidity.

Conclusion: Immigration related factors are important considerations when studying multimorbidity among immigrants. Although significant correlates were identified, additional research is required to better understand the nature of the relationship between these factors and multimorbidity.

Summary for Lay Audience

Multimorbidity occurs when an individual has two or more chronic health conditions. These conditions can include cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, chronic respiratory diseases and mood and/or anxiety disorders. The negative impacts of multimorbidity include, but are not limited to impaired quality of life, increased disability and adverse health outcomes.

Over 20% of Canada’s current population consists of immigrants. International migration accounts for over 80% of Canada’s population growth, with this number predicted to grow, and by the early 2030s Canadian population growth is predicted to rely exclusively on immigration.

Despite the growing public health concerns of multimorbidity, there has been little research of co-occurring chronic conditions among the Canadian immigrant population. To address this gap in the literature this study aimed to assess the proportion of immigrants with multimorbidity and assess the relationship between multimorbidity and immigration, sociodemographic and health risk factors among immigrants 18 years or older.

Using data from the 2007 to 2014 cycles of the Canadian Community Health Survey linked to the Longitudinal Immigration Database, this study found that 3.5% of immigrants had multimorbidity. Recency of immigration, birth region, immigration category, older age, employment status, marital status, income, physical activity and smoking status were associated with multimorbidity.

These findings indicate that immigration related factors are important considerations when investigating multimorbidity among immigrants and can inform public health initiatives aimed at prevention and care of chronic health conditions.

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