Medical and dental status of a culture in transition, the case of the Inuit elderly of Canada.

The medical and dental status, and drug utilisation patterns of Canadian Inuit elders (60+ years) were evaluated. Inuit elders averaged 6.3 medical conditions per person, primarily nervous systems-sense organ deficits, respiratory problems and systemic infections. The mean number of drugs being used was 2.5 per person, primarily analgesics, bronchodilators and antibiotics. Poorly fitting dentures, and high levels of tooth decay, periodontal disease, soft tissue and TMJ anomalies were documented. Compared to older southern Canadians, the medical and dental findings for these Inuit elders were different. Drug utilisation rates were consistent with older southern Canadians, but different drugs were taken.