Mortality Disparity Rates

American Indians and Alaska Natives (AI/AN) in the IHS Service Area
2009-2011 and U.S. All Races 2010 (Age-adjusted mortality rates per 100,000 population)

Indigenous people and Alaska Natives have long experienced lower health status when compared with other US citizens. Lower life expectancy and the disproportionate disease burden exist because of inadequate education, disproportionate poverty, discrimination in the delivery of health services, and cultural differences. These are broad quality of life issues rooted in economic adversity.

Diseases of the heart, malignant neoplasm, unintentional injuries and diabetes are leading causes of American Indian and Alaska Native deaths (2009-2011).

American Indians and Alaska Natives born today have a life expectancy that is 5.5 years less than the US all races population (73.0 years to 78.5 years respectively).

American Indians and Alaska Natives continue to die at higher rates than other Americans in many categories, including chronic liver disease and cirrhosis, diabetes mellitus, unintentional injuries, assault/homicide, intentional self-harm/suicide, and chronic lower respiratory diseases.