Epidemiological approach to the study of conditions of employment, labor and health in the Colombian immigrant population of Spain / Aproximación epidemiológica al estudio de las condiciones de empleo, trabajo y salud en la población inmigrante colombiana en España

The objective of this paper is to analyze the employment, work conditions, and associated health problems of Colombian immigrants. Methods: an epidemiological and descriptive study was conducted in the Colombian immigrant population (employed and unemployed) by means of a personal survey in a sample of immigrants. The survey concerned personal characteristics, working conditions, and health indicators. Results: there is an important percentage of immigrants with a temporary contract or without any contract, and working more than 40 hours per week. One fifth of the immigrants do not have social security coverage. The great majority of women (92%) have incomes under 1,200 euros/month. Immigrants reported discrimination in work and social spaces. Immigrants report several health problems, with some differences between genders. Almost one third has not received information on accident prevention and health issues. Situations of social precariousness are demonstrated, which require strategies to guarantee social protection mechanisms for this entire collective.