Acute gastrointestinal illness in two Inuit communities : burden of illness in Rigolet and Iqaluit, Canada : author version

• Main Authors: Harper, Sherilee, Edge, Victoria, Ford, James D., Thomas, M.K., Pearl, D.L.
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: 2014
• Subjects: REMOTE AREAS; ACUTE GASTROINTESTINAL ILLNESS; DISEASE PROFILE; HEALTH CARE DELIVERY; WATER BORNE DISEASES; INUIT; RIGHT TO WATER; INFRASTRUCTURE; DIARRHEA; CANADA; NORTH AND CENTRAL AMERICA; FOOD HYGIENE; INDIGENOUS PEOPLE; Canada; Nunavut; Rigolet; inuit; Iqaluit
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10625/56536

Results of this study highlight the need for systematic data collection to better understand and support previously anecdotal indications of high acute gastrointestinal illness (AGI) incidence. Cross-sectional retrospective surveys captured information on AGI and potential environmental risk factors. Lack of access to health services can result in reduced care-seeking behaviour, which can compromise the quality and quantity of available surveillance data. The aim of the research was to estimate the incidence and prevalence of AGI, and to identify potential socio-economic and environmental risk factors in the Inuit communities of Rigolet, Nunatsiavut and Iqaluit in Nunavut, Canada.