Epidemiological Study on the Health Status, Use of Healthcare Services, and Preventive Care Among Travellers in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, 2019–2022
Introduction – In 2017, a measles outbreak occurred in France; several cases were reported among populations with limited access to the healthcare system, including families of Travellers. Santé publique France conducted a study with community organizations and the Nouvelle-Aquitaine Regional Health Agency to assess the health status, healthcare utilization, and preventive measures among these families. Method – A participatory cross-sectional study, with a sampling plan, was conducted between November 2019 and March 2022 in Nouvelle-Aquitaine. Three questionnaires (living environment, adults, children) were co-developed and administered in person by trained association representatives. Anthropometric measurements and photographs of the children’s health records were collected. Results – The participation rate was 73.6%, including 1,030 adults and 337 children. Among adults, 36.6% were obese, 14.4% had diabetes, 24.7% had hypertension, and 14.4% had experienced a major depressive episode. The rate of forgoing medical care in the past 12 months was 48.4%. Among children, 45.3% had completed measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccination coverage by 24 months of age, and 17.9% were obese. Housing insecurity affected 74.5% of households, and 22.2% lacked access to running water. Conclusion – The Travellers in this study face living conditions and environmental exposures that may affect their health and access to care. These findings call for targeted “outreach” initiatives, such as health mediation, that take into account their difficult living conditions.
Author(s): Mondeilh Aude, Brabant Gilles, Haidar Sahar, Saboni Leïla, Ruello Marc, Lesieur Sophie, Castor Christine, Autes-Treand Erwan, Le Strat Yann, Vandentorren Stéphanie
Publishing year: 2024
Pages: 58-67
Weekly Epidemiological Bulletin, 2024, n° 4, p. 58-67
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