“Despite Canada’s generally high standard of living and despite a system that promises universal access to high quality care, disparities in health remain a pressing national concern. These disparities are not randomly distributed....

Canada’s newest settlers, like indigenous peoples, are subject to inequities in health and health care. The 250,000 immigrants admitted each year are, on the whole, healthier than native-born Canadians. However, during their first decade in Canada, immigrants are far more likely than the native-born to develop tuberculosis. Over their total life span, some immigrant groups experience particularly high risk for cardiovascular disorders, obesity, and cancer of the colon. Moreover, crisis and conflict create mental suffering for refugees, who constitute about 10% of the immigrant population…

Canada’s commitments to social justice, universal health care and equity are sources of national pride. These principals challenge us to take our place among those countries will to contribute knowledge about, confront and redress inequalities in health that are avoidable, unnecessary and unfair. Living up to our national ideals requires that we address this challenge collectively.”

Beiser M. and Stewart M. 2005. Reducing Health Disparities – A Priority for Canada. CJPH 96(Supplement 2)S4-S5.