Week 8: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health

Why is it important to acknowledge aboriginal diversity?

Using respectful and inclusive language is essential in strengthening relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the wider Australian community.

What language is appropriate to use for Aboriginal and Torres Strait islanders?

'Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander'.

Using 'First peoples' and 'first nations'.

Or simply just ask.

What terms are never appropriate to use?

'Aboriginal peoples'

'First Australians'

Indigenous (sometimes offensive).

What is the difference between "people" and "peoples"?

People: refers to a single geo-cultural community.

Peoples: refers to diverse aboriginal and torres strait islander identities.

What are First Nations people more likely to get?

Obesity

Smoking

Alcohol related issues

Substance abuse issues

Diabetes

Mental health conditions

Homeless

Mistrust of hospital system

Involved in justice system

What social determinants of health affect first nations people?

Poverty

Unemployment

Imprisonment

Limited education

Discrimination

Trauma

Lack of empowerment

What might low health literacy mean?

Ability to understand, question and make informed decisions about ones health.

Fewer checkups

Less care when sick

Poorer adherence to treatment

Reliance on ineffective treatment

What are cultural determinants of health?

Trust in system

Adherence to medications

Willingness to seek care

What are cultural biases?

Shaped by cultural context.

Not all families work the same.

I.e, you attend a child who lives with their grandmother. Is the mother neglecting the child? Or is this normal in some cultures?

What is Men's and Women's business?

Practices focusing on particular roles.

Men and women must not know what is in each-others business.

What is Sorry business?

Occurs following the death of a community/family member.

Usually lasts 2 weeks.

Crucial to be respectful.

Can be disrespectful to say the deceased persons name.

Displaying pictures etc. should be avoided.

What is land and country?

Connection with country, supports active community, links with land, sharing food with family, maintenance of traditions.

Disconnection can cause isolation, substance use, poor diet.

What is Closing the gap?

Established in 2009.

Used to overcome disadvantages faced by first nations peoples.

Minimal success.

What is Target 1 of Closing the Gap?

Closing the gap in life expectancy by 2031.

Some improvement but not on track.

What is Target 2 of Closing the Gap?

Increase the proportion of aboriginal and torres strait islander babies with a healthy birth weight to 91%.

No change as of 2023.