Indigenous mortality (revealed): the invisible illuminated

Authors

Jane Freemantle, University of Melbourne
Ian T. Ring, University of WollongongFollow
Teshia G. Arambula Solomon, University of Arizona
Francine C. Gachupin, University of Arizona
Janet Smylie, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute
Tessa Louise Cutler, University of Melbourne
John A. Waldon, Massey University, University of New South Wales

RIS ID

99236

Publication Details

J. Freemantle, I. Ring, T. G. Arambula Solomon, F. C. Gachupin, J. Smylie, T. Cutler & J. A. Waldon, "Indigenous mortality (revealed): the invisible illuminated", American Journal of Public Health 105 4 (2015) 644-652.

Abstract

Inaccuracies in the identification of Indigenous status and the collection of and access to vital statistics data impede the strategic implementation of evidence-based public health initiatives to reduce avoidable deaths. The impact of colonization and subsequent government initiatives has been commonly observed among the Indigenous peoples of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United States. The quality of Indigenous data that informs mortality statistics are similarly connected to these distal processes, which began with colonization. We discuss the methodological and technical challenges in measuring mortality for Indigenous populations within a historical and political context, and identify strategies for the accurate ascertainment and inclusion of Indigenous people in mortality statistics.