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Background
Keywords
Findings
Authors
What is already known on this subject?
What does this study add?

Background

Research on physical activity among Aboriginal peoples has generally taken a pan-Aboriginal approach rather than considering First Nations people, Métis and Inuit separately.  However, the groups differ geographically and culturally. 

Data and methods

Data from the 2005 Canadian Community Health Survey were used to compare rates of active and moderately active leisure time (versus inactive) among First Nations people off reserve, Métis and Inuit with rates among non-Aboriginal people.  Factors associated with active and moderately active leisure time were examined using logistic regression models. An active or moderately active lifestyle was studied in relation to self-perceived physical and mental health and the presence of chronic conditions.

Results

First Nations (people off reserve) and Métis people were significantly more likely than non-Aboriginal Canadians to have an active lifestyle.  Being male, younger age and high educational attainment were associated with an increased likelihood of physically active leisure time.  An active lifestyle was associated with an increased likelihood of excellent or very good self-perceived physical and mental health among Métis and among Aboriginal people overall.  Level of leisure-time physical activity was not associated with chronic conditions for any Aboriginal group or for the non-Aboriginal population.

Interpretation

Aboriginal peoples generally have higher levels of leisure-time activity than do non-Aboriginal people.

Keywords

Aboriginal peoples, chronic disease, exercise, health status, leisure activities, mental health

Findings

Previous research has suggested that Aboriginal people off reserve may be more active than their non-Aboriginal counterparts. As well, according to results of a 2002/2003 survey, one-fifth of First Nations people living on reserves engaged in at least 30 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous activity four or more days per week. Whether they are Aboriginal or non-Aboriginal, physically active people are more likely than those who are less active to report excellent or very good health. [Full text]

Author

Leanne C. Findlay (613-951-4648; leanne.findlay@statcan.gc.ca) is with the Health Analysis Division at Statistics Canada in Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0T6.

What is already known on this subject?

  • Aboriginal peoples in Canada have relatively high rates of obesity and diabetes.
  • Active leisure time is associated with better health.
  • Little information is available for the three Aboriginal groups—First Nations people off reserve, Métis, Inuit—separately.

What does this study add?

  • First Nations people off reserve and Métis are more active than non-Aboriginal Canadians.
  • Socio-demographic characteristics are associated with physically active leisure time.
  • Active leisure time is associated with better self-perceived general and mental health for Aboriginal people.