Agyemang explains that in Ghana, over 7% of men and women living in the city are overweight, while one in five Ghanaian migrants living in Amsterdam are obese. Nearly nine out of ten Ghanaian women living in Europe are overweight. Obesity increases the risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke, cancer, wear and tear on knees and hips, and depression. Immigrant backgrounds, including those in cities, are more than twice as likely to be obese as Dutch-born individuals. Policymakers must address this issue to prevent high costs for society and improve health outcomes.
Both Agyemang and de Jonge see every day that health and health care are unequally distributed in the Netherlands. And they believe that this needs to change. However, it's important to consider the different norms and values that may apply to different populations. Ghanaians in the Netherlands have started eating differently, exercising less, and walking less due to the convenience of subways and streetcars. Fast food is often cheaper and more comforting for migrants, but they often don’t prioritize healthy eating due to stress, homesickness, language issues, and cultural differences. The second and third generation faces even more stress, with many Dutch wanting migrants to leave. While Migrants continue to be a significant part of the European workforce, with nearly half of nurses and doctors in the UK coming from migrant backgrounds.
De Jonge explained that women with no migration background, yet disadvantaged and poor, often face cultural differences with healthcare providers, leading to premature births, lower birth weights, and increased vulnerability to illness and disability. These women often feel judged and discriminated against, and often have low language skills. To improve pregnancy and birth safety, It is important to work with experienced experts who understand the challenges faced by these women. Group pregnancy care and peer support can also help address financial and psychological issues.