The difficulties in collecting and accessing relevant injury, health-related data in Aboriginal and First Nations communities in Canada are well documented. 1 But the necessity for accurate and timely data is clear. Limited information, combined with few dedicated resources and the absence of targeted programs, impedes disease prevention activities in these communities. The available limited literature shows that addressing the complex range of health problems in disadvantaged Aboriginal or First Nation communities requires considerable work in capacity building with local communities to address their overall public health issues. It is time to provide honest leadership with sufficient resources and the evidence base for a national action plan on surveillance, prevention and control of communicable and noncommunicable diseases, specifically, mental health disorders, violence and injuries.
Footnotes
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For the full letter, go to: www.cmaj.ca/cgi/eletters/182/1/E47#266754
REFERENCE
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