International migration, particularly to Europe, has increased in the last few decades, making research on aspects of this phenomenon, including numbers, challenges, and successes, particularly vital. This Special Issue highlights this necessary and relevant area of research. It presents 37 articles including studies on diverse topics relating to the health of refugees and migrants. Most articles (28) present studies focusing on European host countries. The focus on Europe is justified if we take into consideration the increased number of refugees and migrants who have come to Europe in recent years. However, there are also articles which present studies from countries in other continents. The topics discussed in the Issue include healthcare utilization, infectious diseases, mother and child health, mental health, and chronic diseases. Finding from the included articles indicate that further development of guidelines and policies at both local and international levels is needed. Priorities must be set by encouraging and funding in-depth research that aims to evaluate the impact of existing policies and interventions. Such research will help us formulate recommendations for the development of strategies and approaches that improve and strengthen the integration of migrants and refugees into the host countries.

Abstract: A US Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) report examines the impact of a broad range of behavioral, societal, and health care issues concerning the health of US blacks and minorities on current departmental program areas. Six topics were identified as priority areas: cancer, cardiovascular disease and stroke, chemical dependency (alcohol, illicit drugs, cigarettes) diabetes, homicide and accidents, and infant mortality. Subcommittee summary reports are intended for each of these 6 areas. Data also are presented on the social characteristics of minority populations, mortality and morbidity indicators, health services and resources, an inventory of DHHS program efforts, and a survey of non-federal organizations. Recommendations are provided for health information and education, health services, health professions development, cooperative efforts, data development, and research needs. (wz).