Emigration and obesity rates: is emigration a factor in the increased risk of obesity?

Weight gain is associated with various life events, such as loss (accidents, death, divorce, job loss), illness of a family member, tense family atmosphere, abuse (verbal, emotional, physical) and, last but not least, emigration. This is one of the conclusions drawn by Dr. Ioana Cadar, a therapist and member of Dr. Dejeu’s team. Many of the bariatric patients at Dr. Dejeu’s clinic are Romanians who have gone abroad to improve their living conditions, for new job opportunities, education or to reunite with their families.

“Emigration can increase the risk of obesity and weight gain due to changes in diet, lifestyle, stress levels and limited access to healthy food. This is why many migrants end up adopting local diets which are often higher in calories, fat and sugars, leading to weight gain and obesity. In addition, limited access to healthy food can be influenced by economic factors or geographical location, and adopting a more sedentary lifestyle in the new country can have a negative impact on health,” explains Ioana Cadar.

While reasons for migration can vary – from job and education opportunities to family reunion – adapting to a new environment can have significant mental and physical health consequences. Although the reasons for migration can vary – from job and education opportunities to family reunification – adapting to a new environment can have significant mental and physical health consequences. In particular, cultural and linguistic differences, chronic stress and uprootedness are factors that can contribute to considerable difficulties in migrants’ lives. Uprootedness is a profound experience frequently encountered among Romanian emigrants, involving the loss of deep ties with places, people and culture of origin. This unpleasant experience includes:

Sense of loss and longing: emigrants may feel that they have lost part of their cultural and personal identity. Homesickness creates an emotional void due to the distance from places and people they love.

Isolation and loneliness: Difficulties in forming new relationships and support networks often lead to feelings of isolation. Language barriers and difficulties integrating into society can also exacerbate this feeling.

Stress and anxiety: Major changes in the environment, such as adapting to a different climate and new social structures, can contribute to stress and anxiety. Issues of legal status and personal safety can add further stress.

Culture shock: Romanian emigrants may experience culture shock when values and norms in the host country are very different from those in the country of origin.This internal conflict can generate stress and tension.

Feelings of inferiority or marginalization: Discrimination and prejudice from the local population lead to feelings of inferiority and marginalization.Likewise, economic hardship and employment below one’s qualifications can affect self-esteem.

“Emigration is not just a geographical change, but also a profound emotional and psychological one.Cultural differences, chronic stress and uprootedness contribute to a complex of challenges that can affect both mental and physical health,” Cadar emphasizes. Understanding these issues and addressing them through appropriate support and well-designed interventions by Romania’s most sought-after, internationally accredited bariatric surgery team can make a significant difference in the adaptation and well-being of migrants.