41 Health outcomes of labour migrants and their transnational families in the Asia-Pacific region: a systematic review and meta-analysis

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Abstract OP 37: Health Status 3, B210 (FCSH), September 5, 2025, 11:30 - 12:30 Aims Labour migration is a growing global phenomenon, with most research to date focusing on low-skilled labour migrants entering Europe and North America. Despite high prevalence of labour migration within the Asian Pacific region, little is known about their health and social status to inform targeted health interventions. We conducted a systematic review to explore the morbidity and mortality of international migrant workers and their transnational families in the Asia-Pacific region. Methods Studies published between 1 January 2000 to 1 April 2024 were searched in MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, and Ovid Global Health without language limitation. Grey literature and non-English reports were searched manually. We used narrative synthesis to assess health outcomes of the study population. Results Ultimately, 54 studies with 86,620 participants from 17 countries were included. Findings show the active labour migration in the Asia-Pacific region where 68,320 migrant workers move across 30 countries. Five countries send and receive labourers concurrently. Key health concerns: mental health problems, Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), infection diseases, mixed health outcomes of physical and psychological illness, chronic disease, and occupational injury. Reports suggested high prevalence of illness and death. 48,128 migrant workers reported occupational injuries, and 1,973 reported MSDs symptoms. Mental health problems affect both migrant workers (n = 1,975) and their transnational families(n = 3,902). Overwork, poor working conditions, and workplace hazards impacted health outcomes in these populations. Conclusion Multi-sector interventions are needed in countries with high numbers of migrant workers to protect their health and safety, including policies to regulate working hours, improve occupational health and safety, and increase access to healthcare. Governments in both sending and destination locations with international agencies should take greater responsibility for this important and often essential workforce.

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