[Global health index among immigrants in Québec]

Ridit, a global health index, was analyzed in 2,461 immigrants established in the province of Quebec and this value was compared with that obtained in 25,171 natives of Quebec. Ridit values were not significantly different between immigrants and native Quebecers, suggesting a comparable global health status in both groups. Among immigrants, women had a poorer global health index than men, a phenomenon identical to that previously observed in native Quebecers. Immigrants established since 1980 (25% of all immigrants) had a better global health index than native Quebecers, while immigrants established before 1980 were not significantly different. Immigrants represent several ethnic groups for which a global health index could not be defined.