Acculturation and health-related quality of life: results from the German National Cohort migrant feasibility study

Abstract

Objectives: We assessed the association between acculturation and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among persons with a Turkish migrant background in Germany. Methods: 1226 adults of Turkish origin were recruited in four German cities. Acculturation was assessed using the Frankfurt Acculturation Scale resulting in four groups (integration, assimilation, separation and marginalization). Short Form-8 physical and mental components were used to assess the HRQoL. Associations were analysed with linear regression models. Results: Of the respondents, 20% were classified as integrated, 29% assimilated, 29% separated and 19% as marginalized. Separation was associated with poorer physical and mental health (linear regression coefficient (RC) = −2.3, 95% CI −3.9 to −0.8 and RC = −2.4, 95% CI −4.4 to −0.5, respectively; reference: integration). Marginalization was associated with poorer mental health in descendants of migrants (RC = −6.4, 95% CI −12.0 to −0.8; reference: integration). Conclusions: Separation and marginalization are associated with a poorer HRQoL. Policies should support the integration of migrants, and health promotion interventions should target separated and marginalized migrants to improve their HRQoL.