Health Inequality between Migrant and Non-Migrant Workers in an Industrial Zone of Vietnam

• Main Authors: Kiet Tuan Huy Pham, Long Hoang Nguyen, Quan-Hoang Vuong, Manh-Tung Ho, Thu-Trang Vuong, Hong-Kong T. Nguyen, Giang Thu Vu, Huong Lan Thi Nguyen, Bach Xuan Tran, Carl A. Latkin, Cyrus S. H. Ho, Roger C. M. Ho
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2019-04-01
• Series: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
• Subjects: inequality; health status; health-related quality of life; migration; industry; worker
• Online Access: https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/16/9/1502

Vietnam has experienced massive internal migration waves from rural to industrialized zones. However, little efforts have been made to understand differences in health conditions and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) between local and migrant industrial workers. This study aimed to examine the inequality in health status and HRQOL between these workers. We conducted a cross-sectional study of 289 Vietnamese workers at three industrial areas in Hanoi and Bac Ninh. Self-reported health status and HRQOL were measured using the EuroQOL-5 dimensions-5 levels (EQ-5D-5L) instrument. Sociodemographic, working, and environmental factors were also investigated. Overall, the mean EQ-5D index was 0.74 (SD = 0.21) and the average number of health problems in the last 12 months in our sample was 1.91 (SD = 1.63) problems. Migrant people had a lower EQ-5D index (&#946; = &#8722;0.08, <i>p</i> &lt; 0.01) and more health problems (&#946; = 0.20, <i>p</i> &lt; 0.05) compared to local workers. Those being male, working in the same posture more than 60 min, and exposed to more hazards at work were correlated with a lower EQ-5D index and higher number of health problems. The results highlighted inequalities in health status and HRQOL between migrant and local workers. Reinforcing regular health check-ups, ensuring sufficient protective equipment and working conditions may help improve the health outcomes of the workers.