The relationship between social support and self-reported health status in immigrants: an adjusted analysis in the Madrid Cross Sectional Study

2011

Social Support and Health in Immigrants

Sample size: 1515 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Salinero-Fort Miguel Á, del Otero-Sanz Laura, Martín-Madrazo Carmen, de Burgos-Lunar Carmen, Chico-Moraleja Rosa M, Rodés-Soldevila Berta, Jiménez-García Rodrigo, Gómez-Campelo Paloma

Primary Institution: Fundación de Investigación Biomédica, Hospital Carlos III

Hypothesis

The immigrant population would have worse social support than people born in Spain, regardless of monthly income and perceived health status.

Conclusion

Immigrant status is directly associated with lack of social support, particularly for those with a monthly income below 500 euros.

Supporting Evidence

79% of immigrants reported receiving social support compared to 94% of natives.
Immigrants with monthly income below 500 euros had a higher prevalence of lack of social support.
Stress was significantly associated with lower social support among immigrants.

Takeaway

Immigrants often feel less supported by friends and family than people born in Spain, which can affect their health.

Methodology

Cross-sectional study of immigrants and natives from 15 urban primary health centers in Madrid, using surveys to assess social support and health status.