Approving a new resolution to increase efforts to enhance the health of the indigenous population, by the health ministers from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries in collaboration with their counterparts in the Americas.
Delegates informed that the resolution is expected to impact significantly the Americas, which 62 million indigenous persons call home. This significant landmark comes during the 76th World Health Assembly (WHA)
The resolution states countries will finance, develop and implement national health plans for indigenous people, ensuring equal rights to physical and mental health to the highest attainable standard.
The population of indigenous people in the Americas is more vulnerable to experiencing an increased rate of infectious diseases such as tuberculosis, and non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, explained Dr. Marcos Espinal, assistant director of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO).
He said because it is structured on strategies that address the social contexts and specific environment in which indigenous persons live.
Factors that disproportionately affect these populations, such as health, poor housing, poverty, economic opportunity access to education, water sanitation, and social protection will include in the resolution.
Women in the indigenous community are faced with worse maternal health outcomes within countries. A particular focus on maintaining adolescent and maternal health, including health services for sexual and reproductive health, is addressed by the document.
Enhance investment in training of healthcare workers among the indigenous community, and integrate complementary and traditional medicine into the health services of these communities.
The Americas highlighted the significance of an intersectoral and intercultural approach in the creation of policies for indigenous health with respect to geographic location, gender, age, digital connectivity, and language.
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) informed that they will continue to work closely with the countries of the Americas to uphold the health and well-being of the indigenous population, by implementing the organization’s pioneering plan and strategy of Action on Ethnicity and Health 2019-2025, a global commitment to upholding human right to health of indigenous people.
