The Important Role of Binational Studies for Migration and Health Research: A Review of US‐Mexico Binational Studies and Design Considerations for Addressing Critical Issues in Migrant Health

The impact of migration on health is an important and growing concern worldwide. We conducted a literature review of published health literature in PubMed, between January 1999 and February 2015, representing studies including US and Mexico samples and the title word “binational”. Fifty‐nine studies representing three types of study designs were identified. The health issues examined included chronic conditions, mental health, substance abuse, reproductive health, infectious diseases, environmental health, and use of health‐care services. Binational research between the US and Mexico contributes to our understanding of migrant health and offers critical insights into the processes affecting health outcomes in the US and Mexico. Future studies of all designs can pay closer attention to the social determinants of health.