Moving abroad as an expatriate offers exciting opportunities. The prospects are exciting as you get new financial opportunities, experience a different culture, and see the best a country has to offer. According to the Association of American Residents Overseas, nearly 5.4 million Americans lived abroad as of 2024. Other estimates quote the number as 9 million.

Regardless of the exact figure, these numbers show an inclination for the expat lifestyle. However, relocating to another part of the world may have another side, which can be a tad concerning. It exposes individuals to hidden health hazards that may not be immediately apparent.

Understanding these risks beforehand can help expats prepare and maintain their well-being in unfamiliar environments. In this article, we will explore key health challenges expats face when they relocate.

Climate and Environmental Changes

Relocating often means adapting to different climates and environmental conditions. Suppose you want to move to the Middle East from the US. Al Jazeera cites a study showing that entire populations of several countries in the region may be exposed to extreme heat. The mean annual temperatures will likely exceed 29 degrees Celsius due to climate change.

Sudden changes in temperature, humidity, and air quality can be a dire health hazard for expats. They may cause respiratory problems, dehydration, skin disorders, or exacerbate pre-existing conditions such as asthma or cardiovascular disease. Moving to a more polluted city like Delhi in India can increase exposure to fine particles that may worsen chronic illnesses over time.

Climate change also indirectly affects expats via disruptions to food supplies, water availability, and disease patterns globally. Awareness of these risks before moving enables appropriate health precautions, such as vaccinations, to be taken beforehand. Environmental adaptations like avoiding outdoor activities during peak pollution or extreme weather can also keep you safe.

Unfamiliar Illnesses

When expatriates move to a new country, a lack of immunity to local diseases endemic to the region is a concern. For example, the disease burden of Mpox is extremely high in the African region. The New England Journal of Medicine states that 45,652 Mpox cases were clinically diagnosed and confirmed in 12 countries in the area. This huge number was recorded in just around two years, from January 1, 2022, to August 18, 2024.

Similarly, infectious diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, typhoid, or polio are common in some tropical and subtropical areas. Expats may also encounter bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections uncommon in their home countries. The worst part is that they have little natural resistance to these pathogens.

Knowing the specific health risks of the destination can keep you a step ahead. Consider consulting healthcare providers to receive required vaccinations and prophylactic medications when necessary. Upon arrival, early symptoms of unfamiliar illnesses may be mistaken for minor ailments. Stay vigilant and seek timely medical help.

Food and Water Safety

Food and waterborne illnesses are another reason to worry for expats, especially when sanitation standards differ from those in their home countries. Consuming contaminated water or poorly prepared food can lead to gastrointestinal infections. Even dietary adjustments may unintentionally increase exposure if safe food and water sources are inaccessible.

Regional contaminants like PFAS can be a major health hazard. In fact, the U.S. Geological Survey reported that 45% of water supplies in the country contained PFAS in 2024. Military sites are high-risk zones due to the seepage of chemicals in products like firefighting foam. The ongoing AFFF lawsuit in the US testifies to the sheer scale of the hazard involved, including the risk of cancer.

According to TorHoerman Law, PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are forever chemicals found in firefighter foam. The latest update shows that 10,520 cases are pending in the AFFF MDL. Similar chemicals may pose health hazards in other countries, so it is best to dig deep before you land there.

Adopting cautious food and water consumption habits, such as drinking bottled or purified water and eating fully cooked meals, reduces risk. Expats should also be aware of how to recognize symptoms of foodborne and chemical-induced illnesses. You should also have contingency plans for obtaining medical treatment if needed.

Mental Health Challenges

Moving abroad is a physical and psychological process. People seldom recognize the mental implications of this transition. Expatriates frequently face stress, anxiety, isolation, and homesickness. These issues may escalate into depression or burnout if unaddressed.

Mental strain often surfaces due to the loss of familiar social networks, language barriers, cultural differences, and job pressures. Moreover, the stress of navigating unfamiliar healthcare systems or bureaucracy compounds this burden.

Mental well-being is crucial for a successful expatriation experience. Strategies such as building local social connections, practicing mindfulness, and seeking professional support when needed can help. Also, normalize the feelings, such as anxiety or loneliness, and reach out for support without hesitation.

FAQs

What is expat syndrome?

Expat syndrome refers to the constellation of physical and mental health issues that expatriates may face during or after relocation. Stressors such as culture shock, social isolation, dietary changes, and environmental adjustments cause this condition. Common red flags are fatigue, anxiety, depression, or physical symptoms like insomnia and digestive issues.

Is it normal to get sick when moving to a new country?

Yes, you may experience illness after relocating due to immune system stress, exposure to new pathogens, changes in climate, and dietary shifts. The body requires time to acclimate to the new environment, and transient ailments such as respiratory infections or mild gastrointestinal upset are common.

What are the diseases after international travel?

Traveler’s diarrhea, respiratory infections, malaria, dengue fever, typhoid, hepatitis A, and parasitic infections are common diseases people encounter post-international travel. The specific risk depends on the destination’s endemic diseases and exposure levels. Preparedness with vaccinations and preventive measures can be the best safety precautions.

Expatriation offers rich cultural experiences but comes with various health considerations. Most people do not recognize these risks and end up facing health issues right after landing or later. With informed planning and active self-care, expats can navigate these hidden hazards and enjoy a rewarding life in their new home.