Epigenetics and migration - considerations based on the incidence of psychosis in South Asians in Luton, England.

A higher rate of psychosis has been observed in immigrant populations as compared to the indigenous populations of the UK. Specifically, second generation immigrants (born in the UK) have been noted to have the highest risk. This phenomenon has been attributed to a number of genetic and social factors such as problems with acculturation. Previous studies in Luton, Bedfordshire have shown that the Bangladeshi community experience the highest rate of psychosis above all other ethnic minorities in this area. Here, we consider the lasting epigenetic impact of the stressor of migration and discuss the implications for further work and treatment.