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Toolkit National Caucus of Native American State Legislators Health Resources

Updated July 17, 2023
Related Topic: Quad Caucus

Easily browse the critical components of this report…

Asthma
Cancer
Cardiovascular Disease
Bone Health
Clinical Trials

The National Caucus of Native American State Legislators (NCNASL) Health and Human Services Committee focuses on general health, wellness and mental health for American Indians, Alaska Natives and Native Hawaiians. NCNASL focuses on health disparities and the disproportionate high death rates among Native Americans from COVID-19. The decline in Native American life expectancy since 2019 resulted from COVID-19 deaths as well as increased mortality from several chronic diseases.

Asthma

American Indians and Alaska Natives are 20% more likely to have asthma compared to non-Hispanic whites.

Cancer

Native Americans have much higher rates of getting several cancers, including lung, colorectal, liver, stomach and kidney cancers, compared to non-Hispanic white people in the United States.

Cardiovascular Disease

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death among American Indians and Alaska Natives. 

Bone Health

Native American women have higher rates of osteoporosis which contribute to a greater number of falls. 

Clinical Trials

While some Native Americans are hesitant to participate in clinical trials, it is important they are represented in trials for new drugs and treatments. 

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