A Systematic Review of Bipolar Disorder in Indigenous Peoples.

Indigenous peoples experience well documented health inequities compared to majority ethnic groups. More research into serious conditions like Bipolar Disorder (BD) is needed. A systematic review of published original research involving Indigenous peoples with BD was completed to identify areas of consistency, contradiction and gaps in available literature. Searches identified 396 studies, 25 met inclusion criteria. Six countries including New Zealand were represented. Studies commonly reported small numbers of Indigenous participants, for whom results were often incomplete. The design, population, and methods were also diverse, limiting the review synthesis. The only consistent finding in studies of similar methods suggested BD prevalence may be greater in Indigenous communities. Future research must be designed to inform knowledge about Indigenous peoples with BD, to identify their needs and experiences, and address any factors maintaining health inequities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]