Mawkim.org

Our Voice, Our Survey, Our Reality

Selected Results from RHS Phase 1 (2002/03)

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Statistical Highlights
  • 46% of adults had at least one chronic condition​
  • 59% of adults reported physical abuse during childhood; 34% reported sexual abuse​
  • 62% of respondents supported traditional healing as a pathway to community wellness​
Notable Findings
  • First national health survey in Canada fully governed by First Nations and Inuit organizations.
  • Mixed methods: national core + region-specific content allowed for both comparability and cultural responsiveness.
  • High prevalence of chronic disease, mental health challenges, and service gaps, alongside strong interest in traditional healing and cultural renewal.

Abstract

research in Canada, as the first national survey fully designed, led, and implemented by First Nations and Inuit organizations. Conducted in 186 communities, the survey gathered data on physical, mental, and community health across children, youth, adults, and Elders. Each region contributed its own priorities, while a shared national core enabled comparability. Methodologically, it emphasized OCAP® principles and Indigenous capacity-building. The resulting synthesis highlighted higher rates of chronic disease, mental health concerns, violence exposure, and systemic service gaps—but also revealed cultural resilience, family strength, and a widespread desire to return to traditional wellness approaches.

This report consolidated both national and regional findings into one source to increase accessibility and support health planning, advocacy, and policy development across communities and governments.

RELEASE DATE:

March 2007

CONDUCTED BY:

Prepared by the First Nations Centre at the National Aboriginal Health Organization, on behalf of the First Nations Information Governance Committee. Data gathered and coordinated nationally by the RHS National Steering Committee in 1997, with participation from regional First Nations and Inuit organizations across nine provinces.

DATA COLLECTION PERIOD:

1997 (fieldwork), with synthesis of findings completed by 2003.

PARTICIPATING COMMUNITIES:

186 First Nations and Inuit communities across nine provinces. Excluded PEI, Yukon, NWT, James Bay Cree, and certain Mohawk and Inuit communities in Quebec.

LENGTH & STRUCTURE:

66 pages. Structured by demographic group (Children, Youth, Adults, Older Adults), with thematic chapters on health behaviours, chronic illness, mental health, traditional healing, and access to services. Includes synthesis of national and regional reports, a methods section, and an appendix of survey topics.

Why It Matters

This synthesis brought together the most comprehensive portrait to date of First Nations and Inuit health from the perspective of communities themselves. It documented the high burden of chronic illness—especially diabetes and hypertension—with adults diagnosed years earlier than the national average (e.g., arthritis at age 35; diabetes at 42). Mental health findings were equally urgent: 13–18% of adults met the criteria for major depression, and nearly 15% had attempted suicide at some point​. Rates of childhood physical and sexual abuse were alarmingly high (59% and 34%, respectively), with intergenerational impacts evident across life stages.

Despite these realities, the survey found that most respondents expressed cultural pride, saw value in returning to traditional healing, and reported strong family connections.

Respondents were clear: health services were not equal, and they demanded improved pediatric, mental health, and chronic care access. For Mi’kmaw and other Indigenous health leaders, this report was a call to action—and a foundation for self-determined systems that reflect the full complexity of Indigenous wellness.

Key Topics

  • Community health determinants, chronic illness, and mental health across the lifespan
  • Cultural renewal, traditional healing, and wellness indicators
  • Access to and quality of health services in Indigenous communities