'Health disadvantage': Comparing outcomes for white and racialized immigrants in Canada

A new study has found that there may be a link between discrimination and health disparities in Canada, with racialized immigrants less likely to report being in good health compared to white immigrants and white individuals born in the country.

The study, conducted by Canadian researchers, found that four in five (82 per cent) older refugees, immigrants, and racialized Canadians report being in good physical health. However, racialized respondents who reported experiencing discrimination were less likely to fare as well, researchers say.

Study authors say the high percentage of older refugees reporting good physical health in Canada is "positive news" and underlines the "protective role that Canada's universal health care system may have on enhancing the physical health of refugees."

But they note that more needs to be done to help those racialized respondents.

"Many refugees experience torture and physical hardships in their country of origin, which may have long-term health consequences," explained study author and recent University of Toronto social work graduate Alyssa MacAlpine in press release.