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01-12-2021 | Research article

The association of education in a new society and social support from the education with the health of North Korean defectors: a cross-sectional study

Authors: Jihyun Lee, Yui Park, Dong-Hun Han, Ji Won Yoo, Wenlian Zhou, Pearl Kim, Jay J. Shen

Published in: BMC Public Health | Issue 1/2021

Abstract

Background

The number of North Korean defectors (NKDs) escaping to South Korea has increased. The health status of NKDs is an essential factor for a successful settlement into South Korean society. However, no studies have been conducted on the health status of NKDs in terms of education and social support. The aim of this study was to determine the associations of education and social support with the self-rated health status among NKDs.

Methods

This study utilized data gained from face-to-face interviews with 126 NKDs. A multivariable logistic regression and path analysis were performed to assess the effects of education in South Korea and social support on their self-rated health status and to explore the complex relationships between direct and indirect effects of the variables.

Results

NKDs who did not experience regular education in South Korea responded that they were in poor health compared to their counterpart (OR = 5.78). Although a direct association between education in South Korea and self-rated health was not shown, there was an indirect path from education in South Korea to self-rated health through social support.

Conclusions

Participation in regular education in South Korea is important for the health status of NKDs. Moreover, social support has an important role in the association between education and self-rated health. Social policies and NKD assistance programs should consider and reflect the combination of education and social support interventions relevant to the health status of NKDs.

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Title: The association of education in a new society and social support from the education with the health of North Korean defectors: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Jihyun Lee
Yui Park
Dong-Hun Han
Ji Won Yoo
Wenlian Zhou
Pearl Kim
Jay J. Shen
Publication date: 01-12-2021
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: BMC Public Health / Issue 1/2021
Electronic ISSN: 1471-2458
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-021-10770-4

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

The association of education in a new society and social support from the education with the health of North Korean defectors: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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