Transcending borders: anthropometric insights and body image among Turkish immigrants in Germany and the Netherlands

Background The phenomenon of human migration is multi-dimensional, involving economic, political, cultural and environmental factors; it operates with 'push-pull' dynamics and structures the immigrant population in terms of behaviour, social dynamics, dietary patterns, growth trajectories, reproductive strategies and overall well-being. Since the 1960s, Turkish immigrants have settled mainly in Germany and the Netherlands. Objectives The study aims to understand the changes in anthropometric variables that have occurred among adult Turkish immigrants due to migration, as well as to identify the factors affecting their body image and height. Sample The cross-sectional study included a random sample (aged 18-65 years) of 190 Turkish immigrants (73 males, 117 females) living in Germany and the Netherlands, and 278 non-migrant individuals (120 males, 158 females) living in Turkey. Methods Anthropometric data on height, weight, circumferences, and skinfold thickness were collected, and a body image survey was administered. In addition to descriptive statistics, a principal component analysis (PCA) and a linear regression model were conducted. Results No statistical difference was found between the height of Turkish immigrants in Germany and the Netherlands, and those living in Turkey for males. Overweight was more prevalent in Turkish immigrant groups than in those living in Turkey. Comparison of Turkish immigrants and non-immigrants showed that both male and female living in Europe had higher body image scores. Conclusion The height differences between Turkish immigrants and those still living in Turkey may result from the insufficient integration of immigrants into the new society. It was found that educational level positively affects the height of both sexes in both Turkish immigrants and non-immigrants.