Factors associated with chronic diseases in indigenous populations of South America: a systematic review
Keywords:
Social determinants; chronic diseases; indigenous populations; South America; epidemiological transitionAbstract
Introduction: Chronic diseases are a priority challenge for global public health, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations such as the indigenous peoples of South America who face conditions of structural inequality and limitations in access to health services.
Objective: To synthesize and analyze the available scientific evidence on the factors associated with chronic diseases in South American indigenous populations through a systematic review of the literature.
Material and Methods: A systematic review was carried out following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines and including studies published between 2015 and 2025 in the Scopus and SciELO databases. After the process of identification, screening and eligibility, 20 studies that met the established evaluation criteria were included.
Results: A double burden of disease was evidenced, with a high prevalence of chronic infectious diseases such as tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, hepatitis and Chagas, together with a progressive increase in non-communicable diseases such as hypertension, type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, metabolic syndrome and various types of cancer. The associated factors identified are grouped into: structural determinants such as poverty, overcrowding, and limited access to health; behavioral factors such as a sedentary lifestyle, changes in diet, alcohol and tobacco consumption; and sociocultural factors such as traditional practices, indigenous worldview and language barriers that interact increasing vulnerability.
Conclusions: Chronic diseases in indigenous populations respond to a complex interaction of structural, behavioral, and sociocultural factors, which requires the design of culturally relevant public policies and interventions that reduce health inequities.
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