Preterm delivery among first-time Mexico-born mothers: a binational population-based comparison of deliveries in California and Mexico

Abstract

We found no evidence of a 'healthy immigrant effect'. Further research must assess the comparability of gestational-age data in Mexican and Californian birth certificates.

Variation in Birth Outcomes by Mother’s Country of Birth Among Hispanic Women in the United States, 2013

“…However, studies testing the healthy migrant hypothesis have found mixed results. 5,[18][19][20] Research on immigrant health has demonstrated that the foreign-born health advantage diminishes with increasing duration of residence, as immigrants acculturate to the United States. [21][22][23] Immigrants often have different health behaviors than those of people born in the United States because of the cultural norms and values they bring with them from their countries of birth.…”

Birth Outcomes of Latin Americans in Two Countries with Contrasting Immigration Admission Policies: Canada and Spain

“…A recent study comparing preterm birth rates of Mexico-born women delivering in Mexico and in California did not find evidence of a healthy immigrant effect. [ 10 ] This study, however, could not differentiate between authorized and unauthorized migrants, who are numerous in California, and therefore whether the healthy migrant effect applies differently to these two groups. A study conducted in New York City suggested that undocumented foreign-born Latinas had higher low birthweight rates than documented foreign-born Latinas.…”