First Nations-Controlled Health Website Launched

First Nations-Controlled Health Website Launched

Wednesday, March 07, 2007 at 14:58

A recently-launched website is already being called the most important reference tool for measuring First Nations health outcomes.

That’s the assessment of the chair of the Assembly of First Nations Chiefs Committee on Health, Katherine Whitecloud.

Whitecloud says a survey on the site is the only national research initiative completely controlled by First Nations across Canada.

She says the information will be critical to all governments in making the best decisions on how to improve the lives of First Nations people.

The survey confirms what other studies have previously indicated — that diabetes is three to five times more common among First Nations people than the general population.

It also says the gap has been increasing, especially among middle-aged men and older women.

The website address is www.rhs-ers.ca.