Effects of Pervasive Immigration Enforcement on Children’s Health

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Source: NEJM

Original: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMp2601176?af=R&rss=currentIssue...

Published: 2026-03-11T09:00:00Z

A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine examines the impact of intensive enforcement of immigration laws in the US on the health of children in immigrant families. The research analyzed data from 2016-2020 in areas with high immigration activity. Children in these areas showed an 18% higher incidence of chronic diseases such as asthma and obesity. Hospitalizations of children increased by 12% compared to control areas. Families reported delaying medical care more frequently due to fear of deportation. The study identified increased stress in children, which contributes to psychological problems such as anxiety. Overall, a negative impact on children's physical and mental health has been demonstrated, regardless of their immigration status. The authors recommend policies to reduce fear of immigration enforcement.