Aboriginal Health Literature Review

In this chapter of Aboriginal Health in Canada, Waldram et al. (2006) discuss and review the literature that pertains to the pattern of health and disease among Aboriginal people from the end of World War II to the early twenty-first century (p. 73). The chapter discusses infectious and chronic diseases, as well as intentional and unintentional injuries and how the rate of incidence among Aboriginal peoples differs from non-Aboriginal peoples (p.73). The authors also attempt to describe, using current research literature, various health determinants and how they influence the development of health and disease in the Aboriginal population. Overall, the authors argue that health is multidimensional and is influenced by biological, behavioural, …show more content…
The findings that the authors presented in this chapter are well researched. At the beginning of the chapter the authors made sure they summarized what measurement tools exist to accurately determine the incidence rates of health and disease among Aboriginal populations. It was noted, based on the current databases available to document ethnicity and disease, not all Aboriginal groups are well represented in health research, which can lead to misrepresentation and bias among the author’s findings (p.76). Aboriginal health studies predominantly document First Nations people, specifically those residing on reserves, and the Inuit residing in the northern territories (p. 75). There is a lack of sufficient data on non-status Indians and Métis, particularly those residing in urban areas. Attempts have been made, such as conducting large national …show more content…
The information sources are relatively up-to-date and appear to be valid and well researched. The authors make sure to limit assumptions and personal bias and adhere to verified facts. In addition, the authors add another level of knowledge by attempting to connect health determinants present in the Aboriginal populations that may play a detrimental or preventative role in a particular disease outcome. For example, the authors source several studies that state hospitalization and mortality due to fire-related injury are greater in First Nations than in non-First Nations populations. The authors then explore other sources explaining that physical environmental determinants, such inadequate heating equipment, account for a large number of on-reserve house fires (p. 104-105). Including the “why and how” in addition to the “what and whom” strengthened the findings and are important factors to take into account when determining unique strategies for prevention and/or treatment. Although the authors do a great job in supporting their points using reputable research sources, there was little detail describing the methodology used and statistical significance of each study referenced in the chapter. Because many of the research studies used are epidemiological studies comparing the prevalence