African immigrants represent a rapidly expanding group of immigrants in the United States. In New York City, Africans constitute the fastest growing segment of immigrants but the needs and practices of African immigrants in the U.S. remain poorly understood. A community based organization (CBO) serving African immigrants in Staten Island, NY began a health screening program in 2008 with the goal of promoting access to primary care. Over 18 months, 296 visits were recorded at African Refuge health screenings, representing a total of 87 people who averaged just over 3 visits per person. The screenings identified mental health among the top three medical problems of clients but referral to mental health services was rare. Dedicated services are required to better screen for mental health concerns and refer African immigrants to mental health care. © Springer Science+Business Media, LLC 2010.

Mental health Screening immigrants African

Negro mass screening psychological aspect mental health human risk assessment sex difference middle aged statistics ethnology African American Mental Disorders mental disease United States Young Adult Humans African Continental Ancestry Group male Emigrants and Immigrants Africa Article organization and management adult migration New York City age Sex Factors Age Factors attitude to health African Americans