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Social Determinants of Health
Emerging through international discussions dating back to 1986, determinants of health have evolved over time to encompass the broader social forces that impact upon health. Poverty, employment, working conditions, education and literacy, social status, social support networks, housing, physical environments, geographic location, access to health services, food security, early child development, gender, culture, and language are some of the complex and inter-related social determinants of health. By way of example, higher educational attainment is intrinsically linked to other social determinants of health including greater employment opportunities, higher income, secure housing, more nutritional options and ultimately better health outcomes.
The NCCIH recognizes that colonization and colonialism cross-cut and influence all other social determinants of health of First Nations, Inuit and Métis individuals, families and communities. We also know that the health disparities and inequities experienced by Indigenous peoples are rooted in racism and marginalization, dislocation, and social exclusion. While our centre brings forth a strong focus on the social determinants of health, we aim to move beyond health as conceived as a matter of illness due to bio-medical cause and effect, or lifestyle choices. We take the approach that Indigenous ways of knowing and being, including concepts of spirituality, connectedness and reciprocity to the land and all life, self-reliance, and self- determination advance health equality and outcomes.
Social Determinants of Health
NCCIH selected as Common Vision Champion
The NCCIH has been selected as a Common Vision Champion. The goal of the NCCIH’s project as Champion is to facilitate cross-sector partnerships and collaboration to help collectively guide planning and implementation of integrated approaches to promote healthy living, including increased physical activity in First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities.
A fourth forum on Indigenous determinants of health
A short narrative report, and companion digital video, of the fourth and final NCCAH forum with national Indigenous organizations on the social determinants of Indigenous Peoples’ health, held November 28 and 29, 2017, in Ottawa, Ontario. This forum, “Nakistowinan (Stop In) – Pimicisok (Stock Up) – Kapesik (Stay Over)”, focused on the TRC’s Calls to Action towar...
Incredible resiliencies of Indigenous health
When Determinants of Indigenous Peoples’ Health in Canada: Beyond the Social was released in 2015, it was a first in the field of public health: a book about the health of Indigenous peoples written primarily by Indigenous authors, reflecting a diverse range of Indigenous perspectives, and taking into account a wide array of topics relevant to the health and well-being of Indigenous peoples....