The health of northern residents

This article examines differences in health status and health determinants between residents of the North (Yukon and Northwest Territories) and of the provinces, and between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal territorial residents. The use of health services and medications is also analyzed.

The data are from the 1994/95 National Population Health Survey (NPHS), both the territorial and provincial components. The population analyzed consists of household residents aged 12 and older.

Compared with non-Aboriginal Northerners, Aboriginal people in the territories more frequently rated their health poorly. However, they reported fewer injuries and diagnosed chronic conditions. The prevalence of alcohol consumption was lower among Aboriginal people, while the proportion of smokers was substantially higher. A lower proportion of Aboriginal territorial residents had consulted a general practitioner in the previous year, and a higher proportion had consulted a nurse. Aboriginal people also had a low rate of medication use.