In 2014 Germany had a population of 16.4 million people with migrant background (PMB). PMB are a heterogeneous population subgroup with specific risks and resources. Due to the living conditions in their countries of origin PMB face higher risks for diseases like tuberculosis, hepatitis B or HIV. Even if asylum seekers as a consequence of the housing conditions in mass accommodation are particularly vulnerable to certain infectious diseases this currently presents no hazard for the general population. Only fragmentary information is available concerning non-communicable diseases. For some migrant sub-groups studies suggest a lower morbidity for some types of cancer and CVD. While the evidence is generally ambiguous a higher prevalence for depression in PMB is occasionally reported. Concerning health-related behaviours some studies suggest a lower consumption of alcohol and illicit drugs but as well an unhealthier diet. The proportion of current smokers is increased in some sub-groups of men with migrant background. Apparently, health-related behaviours undergo significant changes in 2nd generation migrants: unhealthier eating habits are more prevalent in German born PMB. Moreover, hazardous behavioural patterns concerning the consumption of alcohol, tobacco, illicit drugs and pathological gambling as well emerge more frequently in PMB born in Germany compared to 1st generation migrants. Thus, PMB need specific counselling on infectious diseases and vaccination programs but as well on potential risk factors and resources. Information on existing health services and the adaption of health care to the specific needs of PMB may help to increase the use of services and the quality of care. © 2017, Hans Marseille Verlag GmbH. All rights reserved.

Health behavior Non-communicable diseases Utilization of health services Infectious diseases Emigration and immigration

Germany depression alcohol consumption human Health Behavior health service morbidity pathological gambling health asylum seeker patient counseling migrant cardiovascular disease smoking male risk factor prevalence Article health care unhealthy diet health care quality infection illicit drug vaccination health hazard malignant neoplasm non communicable disease