Health Reports
A Canadian peer-reviewed journal of population health and health services research
July 2026
Inequalities in access to primary care services and health insurance in Black adults in Canada
In 2021, the Black population in Canada comprised 1.5 million people with diverse ethnic and cultural origins, languages, and countries of birth. Past research has found greater disease burden among the Black population relative to the White population in Canada, including higher prevalence of diabetes and hypertension, higher rates of behavioural risk factors for cardiovascular disease, and higher age-standardized mortality during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, Black Canadians have been reported to experience a number of inequalities in social determinants of health relating to income, education, employment, food security, and housing, compared with White Canadians.
Full article PDF versionDifficulties accessing specialist care and the association with unmet health care needs among middle-aged and older Canadians
Canada’s population is aging rapidly, driven by lower birth rates, longer life expectancy, and the demographic shift associated with the baby boom generation (1946-1964 birth cohort). The share of older adults (aged 65 or older) within the total population is projected to increase from 18.9% in 2023 to between 21.9% and 32.3% by 2073. Life expectancy among older adults continues to increase, and most report good health despite living with chronic conditions; however, the prevalence of such conditions rises with age. Consequently, the number of Canadians living with chronic conditions or a disability is expected to rise.
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