Background
The population in the Northwest Territories is divided almost equally between aboriginal (51%) and non-aboriginal people (49%) with 43 % of the total population being under the age of 25. However, life expectancy is lower among NWT Aboriginal peoples than that of the overall Canadian population.
For Aboriginal Canadians, diabetes rates are at least three to five times higher than for all other Canadians. In general, there is an increased risk of adult onset diabetes from obesity and physical inactivity. According to Health Canada, diabetes is becoming more and more common among the Aboriginal population.
Physical Inactivity:
Physical inactivity is a significant health issue.
According to the Canadian Fitness and Lifestyle Research Institute, only 37% of the residents in the NWT are active enough to gain a significant health benefit.
In 1999 less than half (45%) of all adults were active enough for optimal health benefits, leaving 55% of adults in the NWT inadequately active. Three out of 5 children from ages 5 to 17 are not active enough for optimal growth and development (Canadian Fitness Lifestyle Research Institute).
According to Statistics Canada, 31.9% of Canadians are overweight (defined as having a body mass index of more than 27%). This increases the risk of heart disease, breast cancer and adult-onset diabetes.
The Northwest Territories has one of the highest proportions of overweight residents in Canada, at 41.4%, second only to Newfoundland, which is at 42.8%. A more active population could possibly have 24% fewer deaths from type 2 diabetes.
These studies clearly show the need for the important work that has been conducted in past years by organizations such as the NWT Recreation and Parks Association (NWTRPA).
Physical activity must be discussed at the community level to help initiate positive and long-term lifestyle changes.