Healthy Immigrant Children (HIC) Study

Despite the growing number of newcomers, including immigrants and refugees, in Saskatchewan, little is known about their nutritional and health status and needs. This project will identify the major nutrition and health issues and intervention needs for immigrant and refugee families, especially their children who represent a more vulnerable group.

Objective

The objective of this research project is to characterize health and nutrition issues that affect immigrant and refugee newcomer children. There will then be a comparison of the impact of income-related household food insecurity on the health and nutrition status of newcomer children to those of Canadian children. In addition, the current support system for immigrants and refugees will be assessed.

Procedure

In a cross-sectional design, we have taken measurements from a sample of newcomer children who have been living in the cities of Saskatoon and Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada for no more than 5 years. We chose 5 years, as studies have suggested the greatest change in lifestyle and diet occurs within this 5 year period. The most recent testing period for this study occurred from 2012-2015. We hope to continue this study in the future.