Health status and living conditions of north-bound migrant minors in Mexico at place of origin and during the migration journey: A cross-sectional, mixed-methods study

The passage of north-bound migrants through Mexico has increased dramatically in the last decade, with an increasing proportion of minors. However, there is still little evidence on the health status and living conditions of migrant minors in transit through Mexico. The aim of this study was to better characterize the evolution of health status and its contributing factors in this population from the place of origin to the period of travel. We conducted a cross-sectional mixed-methods study with migrant caregivers staying with minors in shelters in northern Mexico. Quantitative data were collected through surveys using validated tools to assess minors' well-being and health-related social needs and were analyzed descriptively and inferentially. Qualitative data were obtained through focus groups using a semi-structured interview guide and analyzed through thematic analysis. Information was collected on 200 minors between July and September 2024. Caregivers reported precarious and unsafe living conditions at origin and along the journey, as well as a series of barriers to accessing health services. Deterioration in the mental and physical health of minors was observed between the pre-departure and travel periods. Our study illuminates adversities faced by migrant children and adolescents in Latin America along the migratory journey and emphasizes the impact of these adversities on their well-being. There remains a need to continue supporting the implementation of interventions that contribute to the well-being of minors in transit in the region.