Health Issues among Nepalese migrant workers in the Middle East

Background: There is little specific published research which examines the health issues among Nepalese migrant workers in the Middle Eastern countries. In particular, it examines the nature and quality of health care situation, work-related health risks, working condition and living condition in host countries. Aim: This study reviewed the literature about work-related health risks, access to health care, working and living condition of Nepalese migrant workers in the Middle East. Method: The published literature was searched through electronic databases such as CINAHL and Medline using a number of key words and their combinations, and the searching of published books and reports from number of UN agencies. Bibliographies of published articles retrieved from electronic database searches were searched in turn, and relevant articles retrieved for further review. Results: This review of the literature suggested that being a migrant worker involves number of specific risks, including anxiety, depression, tuberculosis and eye injury. In addition to this, work-related accidents and injury, headache, suicide attempts, cardiac arrests, mental illness and high death rates are further evidence of health risks among Asian migrant workers working in the Middle East. Furthermore, these workforces generally have poor working and living conditions. Conclusion: Migrant workers mainly from Nepal and other Asian countries, working in the Middle East face various work-related risks including accidents at work; stress and mental health issues and lifestyle related factors such as illegal drinking. Thus, future research needs to focus attention on minority ethnic groups in the Middle Eastern countries.