Native Americans face a significantly lower life expectancy than white Americans, with a median age at death 14 years younger. This disparity is even more pronounced in South Dakota, where Indigenous residents died 22 years younger than their white counterparts. The underlying causes of this health crisis extend beyond medical care and encompass social and economic factors, including poverty, poor housing conditions, limited access to transportation, and a history of trauma and racism.
Experts emphasize the need for holistic interventions that address these root causes. Community-based prevention programs, such as the Family Spirit program, provide support to pregnant women and families, teaching parenting skills, drug abuse prevention, and stress management. These initiatives also incorporate cultural traditions, creating a sense of belonging and empowerment. However, access to these services remains a challenge due to a lack of funding and transportation barriers.
