We conducted a systematic review of literature reporting on the prevalence of assessment measures, treatments, and biomarkers used in the diagnosis and treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in Iraqi, Kurdish, and Syrian refugees. We performed a search of medical, psychological, and sociological databases on all relevant literature published between January 2011 and March 2016. Seventeen manuscripts met the study inclusion criteria. On the basis of the findings, authors advocate the use of the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire, Hopkins Symptom Checklist-25 (HSCL-25), and Post Migrational Living Difficulties (PMLD) to exclude PTSD noncases and the Clinically Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS) for diagnosis of PTSD in Iraqi, Kurdish, and Syrian refugees in Canada. They further suggest Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET) as the psychological treatment currently with the strongest evidence base in this population. Finally, we advocate continued research into biomarkers as a means of improving and objectifying psychological assessment and treatment of PTSD in Canadian refugee populations.
Prevalence, determinants, and effects of food insecurity among Middle Eastern and North African migrants and refugees in high-income countries: A systematic review
Issues related to poverty and income inequality in high-income countries have led to food insecurity among some population groups, such as migrants and refugees. While there are some studies on the experience of some migrant groups (and other subpopulations), little is known about food security among Middle Eastern and African migrants and refugees. This systematic…