First Nations, Inuit and Métis

Research has shown that First Nations, Inuit and Métis persons are more likely to have high blood pressure and diabetes and are at greater risk of heart disease and stroke than the general population.

As a First Nations, Inuit or Métis woman, you can manage your added risk by making healthy changes in your lifestyle. It’s especially important for you to maintain a healthy weight, stop smoking, get 30 minutes of exercise each day and have yourself tested for diabetes and high blood pressure.

See the Prevention section of this website for more information on how to reduce your risks and prevent heart disease and stroke.

The Heart and Stroke Foundation has published a video, titled Heartbeat of the Anishnawbe Nation, which shows how Aboriginal peoples can manage their risk of heart disease and stroke through a balance of medical and Aboriginal traditions. The video is available in Ojibwe, Oji-Cree and English. This video, and more heart health resources for First Nations, Inuit or Métis peoples are available on the Heart and Stroke Foundation website.