What factors are associated with obesity-related health behaviours among child refugees following resettlement in developed countries? A systematic review and synthesis of qualitative and quantitative evidence.

Abstract

Refugee children are likely to become less active and eat more unhealthily after their resettlement in developed countries. This review aims to identify and synthesize research about factors that influence unhealthy behaviours related to obesity in this population. Six electronic databases were searched systematically to identify studies that sampled refugee children or parents of refugee children aged 2 to 16 years who have resettled in a developed country. Methodological and cultural study quality was assessed and factors associated with obesity-related health behaviours investigated. Twenty studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Five major themes, representing factors influencing health behaviours, were identified from the data synthesis process: Acculturation, Environmental, Socioeconomic, Cognitive, and Family. The analysis revealed that refugee's health behaviours are influenced by several complex factors that are common to immigrant groups but have a greater influence among refugees. The review also revealed parental practices influence the health behaviours of children, especially those aged 2 to 10 years. Research is needed to understand further the role that parents have in influencing health behaviours and weight trajectories of children following resettlement.