Challenges in public health research with American Indians and other small ethnocultural minority populations

Abstract

As a result of the historical legacy of conquest, colonization, and cultural destruction, indigenous peoples often represent just a small segment of the population in many countries throughout the world. In the United States, American Indians/Alaska Natives are not only one of the smallest minority groups in the nation, but are also very culturally diverse. Disparities in health outcomes often occur along racial and ethnic lines, and culture can play an important role in shaping health behavior. Research on the distribution and patterning of disease and risk behaviors among population subgroups is critical for advancing evidence-based public health policy and practice. This article provides a brief overview of key challenges in conducting behavioral health research with American Indians at both community and population levels. Many of the issues raised also apply to other small ethnocultural minority groups.