A global perspective of Indigenous child health research: a systematic review of longitudinal studies

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Rigorously designed longitudinal studies can inform how best to reduce the widening health gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous children. METHODS: A systematic review was performed to identify and present the breadth and depth of longitudinal studies reporting the health and well-being of Indigenous children (aged 0-18 years) globally. Databases were searched up to 23 June 2020. Study characteristics were mapped according to domains of the life course model of health. Risk of bias was assessed using the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Study Quality Assessment Tools. Reported level of Indigenous involvement was also appraised; PROSPERO registration CRD42018089950. RESULTS..