How Should Epidemiologists Respond to Data Genocide?

Data quality for and about American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) people is undermined by deeply entrenched, colonial practices that have become standard in US federal data systems. This article draws on cases of maternal mortality and COVID-19 to demonstrate the ethical and clinical need for inclusive, diverse, and accurate data when researching AI/AN health trends. This article further argues that epidemiologists specifically must challenge implicit bias, question methods and practices, and recognize colonial, racist reporting practices about AI/AN people that have long undermined data collection, analytical, and dissemination practices that are fundamental to epidemiological research.

The Influence of Loneliness on Pain Outcomes for Adolescents: A Cross-Sectional Survey.

Background: Loneliness, the perception that one's social relationships do not meet the desire for social connection, is a risk factor for poor mental and physical health. Adolescents with chronic pain experience higher rates of peer loneliness which persists over time. Previous studies used a single loneliness measure, limiting our understanding of the nature of their loneliness.