Migration in itself is considered a social determinant of health, as the process of migration oftentimes places migrants in hazardous conditions that make them more susceptible to illness and injury, and causes disruptions in access to medication and care. Data has demonstrated that migrant populations may have higher rates of communicable diseases, such as malaria, HIV/AIDS, and tuberculosis (WHO, 2018).

As international migration increases, concerns are raised about the health of migrants and their access to healthcare services, since those rights may be particularly at risk for such mobile, vulnerable groups. Despite these important considerations, official discussions regarding migration and development often neglect or downplay issues of health.