Association between migration and cardiovascular health in Mexicans: a binational analysis using the Hispanic Community Health Study (HCHS/SOL) and Mexican Family Life Survey (MxFLS).

BACKGROUND

Evolving migration patterns between the USA and Mexico may alter the traditional health advantages associated with Mexican immigrants in the USA. This study examines the relationship between migration status and health, comparing Mexican-origin individuals residing in the USA and Mexico.

METHODS

We conducted a binational, population-based, cross-sectional analysis using the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (2008-2011) and the Mexican Family Life Survey (2009-2011). Our sample included 13 486 adults aged 18-65, categorised as US-born Mexican Americans, foreign-born Mexicans in the USA, return migrants in Mexico and non-migrants in Mexico. We analysed cardiovascular risk factors, including body mass index, waist-to-hip ratio, hypertension and self-reported health, using multivariable logistic regression, adjusting for socioeconomic and behavioural covariates.

RESULTS

Compared with non-migrants in Mexico, foreign-born Mexicans in the USA had higher odds of overweight (OR=1.83, 95% CI 1.26 to 2.52) and elevated waist-to-hip ratio (OR=2.87, 95% CI 2.24 to 4.50) but lower odds of clinical hypertension (OR=0.49, 95% CI 0.34 to 0.68) and poor self-rated health (OR=0.26, 95% CI 0.19 to 0.33). US-born Mexican Americans exhibited similar patterns to the foreign-born in the USA. Return migrants had health profiles more aligned with non-migrants in Mexico. Increasing years in the USA for foreign-born migrants was associated with adverse health risks (OR=0.003-0.01, p≤0.001-0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

US residency for US-born Mexicans and foreign-born Mexicans is associated with both advantages and risks compared with remaining in Mexico. Return migrants exhibit mixed health outcomes, suggesting that migration trajectories shape long-term cardiovascular risk. These findings point to potential shifts in the Hispanic paradox among Mexicans.