Structural Determinants of Indigenous Health: A Photovoice Study in the Peruvian Amazon

Authors

Paola A. Torres Slimming, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia
E. Roberto Orellana, Portland State UniversityFollow
Jeiser Suarez Maynas

Published In

AlterNative: An International Journal of Indigenous Peoples

Document Type

Citation

Publication Date

6-2014

Abstract

Indigenous populations in the Americas carry a disproportionate burden of disease. Common to populations affected by health inequities is the exposure to structural factors—social, political, environmental and economic—that shape the risks for disease. We conducted a photovoice study in three Shipibo-Konibo indigenous villages in the Peruvian Amazon. Twenty-four indigenous participants consented to take part. The study found that Shipibo-Konibo villagers are exposed to a series of structural factors such as malfunctioning latrines, lack of garbage disposal systems, lack of health services, migration, and mixing with outsiders which they see as important determinants of their health. While primary health care is urgently needed among indigenous communities in this region, any public health intervention must take into account the structural forces that affect indigenous people's health.

Description

Locate the Document

https://doi.org/10.1177/117718011401000203

DOI

10.1177/117718011401000203

Persistent Identifier

http://archives.pdx.edu/ds/psu/24054

Citation Details

Torres, P., Orellana, E.R., & Suarez, J. (2014). Structural Determinants of Indigenous Health: A Photovoice Study in the Peruvian Amazon. AlterNative: An International Journal of Indigenous Peoples, 10(2), 123-133.