Giving Compass' Take:

• Native American youth that are affected by childhood obesity have little to no access to preventative care to address this medical issue. 

• The author says that  "for the most part, Native youth and their health issues are invisible to society as a whole." How can NGOs and organizations change that perception? 

• Read more about how to expand opportunities for Native American youth through philanthropy. 

Childhood obesity is a silent killer that is plaguing Indian Country and resulting in shortened, unfulfilled lives. That said, obesity and many of the affiliated diseases (type 2 diabetes and heart disease, etc) are preventable and the solutions exist in tribes and Native communities themselves. However, the opportunities and resources to do so are often minimal to nonexistent.

For the most part, Native youth and their health issues are invisible to society as a whole.

First, effective communication requires the ability to listen to others ideas and to respect other viewpoints, despite disagreement. Second, utilizing good and accurate data/information is important to effective communication. Finally, effective communication must be rooted in authenticity and conviction. Lack of credibility will only result in strengthening the position of those that disagree with you.

I am convinced that any strategies to improve individual health and public health are deeply intertwined with other sectors, e.g. economic development, education, government, etc. and must engage all sectors for effective and long-term solutions. The social determinant of health are multi-sector in nature and must be approached accordingly.

Read the full with Justin Huenemann on Native American youth health at Native Americans in Philanthropy