health inequities
We study health inequities between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Peoples
Despite significant variation between and within populations, First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples in Canada continue to face lower levels of health and well-being relative to non-Indigenous Canadians. Using nationally representative data sets such as the First Nations Regional Health Survey and the Indigenous Peoples Survey, our research has assessed disparities within Indigenous populations and also relative to the non-Indigenous population in Canada. Some of this research has also assessed factors that contribute to these inequities such as food insecurity, low socioeconomic status, and other social determinants of health.
Despite the stress and trauma experienced, Indigenous peoples continue to demonstrate their strength and resilience in various ways. To find out how various aspects of cultural identity and engagement can buffer against the negative effects of adversity and promote wellness, please click here.
To find out how our research is beginning to assess how biological factors might be involved in the transmission of effects of residential schools or the child welfare system across generations, please click here.
To find out how our research has been used in various ways to benefit Indigenous peoples, including by providing evidence of the continued direct and intergenerational effects of the residential school system and the child welfare system so that Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples can have a shared understanding of the legacy of colonialism in Canada, please click here.
To find out how we are examining the current landscape of Indigenous education curriculums in Canada and exploring best practices for educators and academics conducting Indigenous health research please click here.
Multimedia
RESEARCH SPOTLIGHT: Understanding Inequities in Indigenous Mental Health
Recent Publications
about health inequities
2024
Hu, M., Hajizadeh, M., Asada, Y., Bombay, A. (2024). Inequalities in health between First Nations adults living off- reserve and non-Indigenous adults in Canada: A decomposition analysis. Canadian Public Policy, 50, 51-75.
2023
Hajizadeh, M., Keefe, B.L., Asada, Y., Bombay, A., Martin. D. (2023). Income-related inequities in primary and specialist care among First Nations peoples living off-reserve in Canada. Journal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities, 1-20.
2021
Hajizadeh, M., Hu, M., Asada, Y., & Bombay, A. (2021). Explaining the gaps in psychological distress and suicidal behaviours between non-Indigenous and Indigenous adults living off-reserve in Canada: A cross-sectional study. Canadian Medical Association Open Access Journal, 9(1), E215–E223.
2019
Hajizadeh, M., Bombay, A., & Asada, Y. (2019). Socioeconomic inequalities in psychological distress and suicidal behaviours among Indigenous peoples living off-reserve in Canada. Canadian Medical Association Journal, 191(12), E325.
2018
Hajizadeh, M., Hu, M., Bombay, A., & Asada, Y. (2018). Socioeconomic inequalities in health among Indigenous peoples living off-reserve in Canada: Trends and determinants. Health Policy, 122(8), 854–865.