"The social determinants of Aboriginal Health: A literature review"

Abstract

The Assembly of First Nations has identified "the need to develop an integrated, holistic, inter-departmental and inter­ organizational organism to address the inequities and gaps in health and social service delivery to First Nations" (AFN, 2002). However, there is much work to be done in efforts to reach this goal, as there are many factors that one must take into consideration when examining Aboriginal health from a holistic perspective. For example, it has been reported that in British Columbia (BC) that 20% of Aboriginal people are below the provincial average based on income, employment, and educational attainment and housing (Kendell and Hull, 2002).

In addition to national reports, the BC Ministry of Health advocates that there is the need to look at the broad spectrum of health and social determinants to come up with solutions that will improve the health and well being of Aboriginal people. These determinants are comprised of health, gender, biology, culture, coping skills, social environments, social support networks, income and social status, employment and working conditions, education, child development and physical environments. The determinants are interdependent, cannot be examined individually and a holistic approach needs to be utilized when dealing with Aboriginal health issues. It is important for non-aboriginals to observe the difference in fundamental viewpoints of Aboriginal people in their relationship with the natural surroundings, other races, flora and fauna (Driben and Simpson, 2000). The lack of control over one's life plays an important factor in their well-being.