Native Americans have the highest prevalence of Type 2 diabetes in the world and rates are increasing at 'almost epidemic proportions. It is alarming to read that even though Type 2 diabetes, historically has been restricted to adults the incidence is rising faster among Native American children and young adults. Type 2 diabetes is "largely preventable" and is dependent, at least in part, on life style choices. In the area of mental health, Native Americans are believed to be at higher risk than are other racial and ethnic groups in the U.S. the most significant mental health concerns today are the high prevalence of substance abuse, depression, anxiety, violence and suicide. (Joe JR. 1996)Native Americans use and abuse alcohol and other drugs at younger ages, and at higher rates, than all other ethnic groups. Native Americans had the highest prevalence rates of marijuana and cocaine use. Unintentional Injuries is an area of particular concern for Native Americans. In fact, unintentional injuries are the leading cause of death for Native Americans under the age of 44 and the third leading cause of death overall. Unintentional injuries are the result of motor vehicle crashes, pedestrian events, firearms use, drowning and fires. (Paisano EL, Caroll DL, Cowles JH, 1994)
Native American children die from motor vehicle accidents at twice the rate of white children and 3 times the rate of white children in pedestrian events, drowning and fires. The suicide rate for Native American children is 2 and a half times that of white children. In addition to problems associated with life style choices, other factors that act as barriers to service included racial bias and discrimination, both explicit and subtle, culturally inappropriate health care delivery, and problems resulting from language gaps...........
