J Korean Med Sci.  2023 Nov;38(46):e398. 10.3346/jkms.2023.38.e398.

The Health Status and Management of Migrant Workers in Cheonan: A Comparison Study With Korean Citizens

• Kim S
• Lee DJ
• Kim SH
• Byun MS
• Yun YS
• Lim NK

• KMID: 2548546
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3346/jkms.2023.38.e398

Abstract

Migrant workers face challenging working conditions, resulting in physical and mental vulnerability. The objective is to identify their health vulnerabilities and ensure their right to health. Health records of 163 migrant workers (113 males and 50 females) (Group A) and 163 Korean citizens (Group B) visiting our institution were analyzed from August 2021 to July 2022. Both groups underwent urine analysis, chest radiography, and various blood tests. Statistical analysis using independent t-tests and χ² tests was performed. Group A had a significantly higher rate of hepatitis B virus surface antigen-positive patients, lower vaccination rates for hepatitis B, and poorer nutritional status compared to Group B. Group B generally exhibited higher levels of albumin, glucose, total cholesterol, and thyroidstimulating hormone. There were significant quantitative differences in multiple blood cell and hemoglobin measurements between the two groups. These findings emphasize the need for policy support and public awareness to protect the health rights of migrant workers.

Keyword

Health Status; Migrant Workers; Hepatitis; Public Health

Figure

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  Fig. 1 Photographs of the Raphael Clinic Cheonan Branch on the day of the medical health examination.

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  Fig. 2 Comparison of liver viral markers between both groups.**P < 0.01; ***P < 0.001.

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