Disease Prevention and Health Promotion for Conflict-Affected Ukrainians in Poland

Abstract Background Community involvement in healthcare and addressing the needs of vulnerable populations, including conflict-displaced populations, is neither a new concept nor a new practice. Local communities, acting individually, collectively, through NGOs, or with health system institutions, have always taken steps to secure essential needs like food, shelter, safety, and health for those most in need. This study aims to examine health promotion and disease prevention initiatives undertaken in Poland to support the health and well-being of Ukrainian migrants and war refugees. Material and methods This study draws on data from the ProfiBaza system, concerning public health interventions implemented by local authorities and health system institutions in Poland (2022-2023), focusing on health and social support services delivered to migrants in community-based settings. Results 3,198 public health interventions targeting Ukrainian migrants were recorded in the ProfiBaza system for 2022-2023, with 2,980 (93.2%) focusing exclusively on health promotion and disease prevention. The programs included both community-wide and individual-level efforts within primary prevention (e.g., 2,312 health education initiatives to enhance health literacy and 682 vaccination campaigns) and secondary prevention, with 158 actions focused on screening and early disease detection. Health promotion interventions aimed at behavior and lifestyle changes (1,476) addressed key risk factors like tobacco use, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, and poor diet, while 789 interventions targeted broader environmental and psychosocial health determinants. Conclusions Health promotion and disease prevention efforts for conflict-displaced populations should prioritize creating supportive health environments, integrating migrant health into broader policies, and empowering individuals by improving their health literacy, breaking down barriers to healthcare access, and promoting social inclusion. Key messages • Health promotion activities targeting migrants and war refugees highlight a strong focus on social determinants of health, supporting social justice, solidarity, and health equity. • Addressing migrant health challenges requires multisectoral approaches, emphasizing health promotion, practical support, and strong public policies.