Assessment of the Frequency and Contributing Factors for Major Infectious Diseases in UK Migrants: A Systematic Review
By
Rebecca F. Baggaley
Carys M. Hooper
Luisa Silva
Zainab Lal
Paul Bird
Dee Menezes
Dominik Zenner
Christopher A. Martin
Manish Pareek
March 3, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: Assessment of the Frequency and Contributing Factors for Major Infectious Diseases in UK Migrants: A Systematic Review
At a Glance
Category Detail
Condition Communicable diseases in migrants (TB, HIV, HBV, HCV)
Key Mechanisms Increased exposure, substandard living conditions, limited healthcare access
Target Population Migrants to the UK
Care Setting Primary care and public health settings
Key Highlights
82% of TB notifications in 2024 were in migrants Higher HIV prevalence in migrants compared to native populations 95% of new chronic hepatitis B diagnoses in migrants Increased risk of late presentation and aggressive disease progression Importance of early diagnosis and management to reduce morbidity and mortality
Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Screen migrants for active and latent TB Screen for HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C
Management
Integrated approach to testing and treatment for migrants
Monitoring & Follow-up
Track prevalence of infections in migrant populations for effective health planning
Risks
Increased risk of reactivation of latent TB due to migration stressors
Patient & Prescribing Data
Migrants residing in the UK
Targeted testing strategies based on risk factors for infections
Clinical Best Practices
Implement routine screening for TB, HIV, HBV, and HCV in migrant populations Utilize a risk-based approach for targeted testing Ensure access to healthcare for migrants to facilitate early diagnosis
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