Economic, Political and Social Factors Influencing the Well-Being of Migrants Living with Type 2 Diabetes in Canada: A Scoping Review Protocol
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Abstract
Introduction: Type 2 diabetes (T2D) has been rising globally for decades, with projections estimating 700 million cases by 2045. In Canada, approximately 3.8 million people aged 12 months and older live with diagnosed diabetes, representing 9.6% of the population. T2D reflects significant social inequalities in health, disproportionately affecting certain groups. Migrants often face unique challenges in managing T2D due to lower socioeconomic status, language barriers, and limited access to healthcare. Research shows they are more likely to develop complications linked to social and economic determinants, including food insecurity, unstable employment, and systemic barriers to culturally appropriate care.
Objective: To map and synthesize economic, political, and social factors that influence the well-being of migrants.
Method: A scoping review using the framework of Arksey and O’Malley will be conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‑Analyses – Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guideline. An electronic search of studies, published in English, Italian, French, and Portuguese, will be conducted in 6 databases (CINAHL, Embase, PsycInfo, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Sciences).
Discussion and Research Spin-offs: The review described in this protocol will highlight factors such as economic disparities, inequalities in access to health services related to migration status, as well as the role of community support and social networks in diabetes management. By exploring current knowledge, this review will identify gaps in the literature and provide a foundation to inform future clinical and policy reflection, particularly in ongoing efforts to address health inequalities experienced by migrant populations.
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