Health of refugee children upon arrival in high-income countries: A scoping review

Abstract

• Most of the included studies were cross-sectional; a few were longitudinal and cohort • Map seven major health themes among refugee children upon resettlement in high-income countries • Nutritional deficiencies and infectious diseases were the leading health burden • Neglected tropical diseases, lead exposure, mental health issues, and poor immunisation coverage were also reported. • Findings revealed a need for targeted health interventions, programs, and inclusive polices to address unmet health needs Background: Refugee children represent one of the most vulnerable population groups globally, facing higher health risks. This scoping review aimed to systematically identify, map, and synthesize recent evidence on the health outcomes of refugee children during the initial resettlement phases in high-income countries. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive search of major electronic databases, including MEDLINE, CINHAL, EMBASE, Emcare, Scopus, and Web of Science, to identify relevant peer-reviewed studies. The study selection processes adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Extension for the Scoping Review guidelines. Furthermore, we applied the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) framework for scoping reviews to ensure methodological rigor and transparency. Results: Of the 3440 articles retrieved, we included 43 studies (38 cross-sectional, three longitudinal, and two cohort). Findings categorized into seven key thematic areas: (1) nutritional deficiencies (e.g., stunting, wasting, underweight, overweight, obesity, and vitamin deficiency); (2) infectious diseases (e.g., latent tuberculosis, hepatitis); (3) neglected tropical diseases (e.g., scabies and schistosomiasis); (4) dental caries; (5) Elevated blood lead level (6) inadequate immunization status; and (7) mental health problems. Conclusions: This review emphasizes that refugee children are resettled with a multiple burden of health problems. Comprehensive health screening and culturally responsive targeted interventions are essential in addressing unmet health needs of refugee children. Future research should focus on longitudinal study designs and the use of disaggregated data by countries of origin, age, migration pathways, resettlement context, and specific child health outcomes. Such approaches enhance understanding of health disparities, inform evidence-based health planning, and support the development of refugee health policies.