These numbers, however, do not reflect the heterogeneity of ethnic and migrant minorities in Europe. Minority status may be based on religion, race, class, nationality or ethnic origin, depending on the culture of the country. Overall, the number of non-nationals can be assumed a conservative estimate of individuals with minority status residing in EU countries. Although data on the health of specific immigrant and ethnic minorities in the EU is limited, Mr Wilfried Kamphausen, the European Commission representative, said that research showed that in general the risk of illness was higher for people who had to adapt to the process of migration. Higher pregnancy-related morbidity, increased postnatal problems and a greater number of infant deaths and congenital malformations are reported for minority women in all EU countries.
Unwanted pregnancy is reported from some member states as being frequent among immigrant women.