Diversity in Pacific Islander Populations

Pacific Islanders are from thousands of small islands in Polynesia, Micronesia, and Melanesia. There are vast differences in historical backgrounds, languages, cultural norms, and lifestyle practices among these Pacific peoples. Successive occupation by other cultures has resulted in the repression of many Pacific Island cultures and a loss of cultural identity. This has led to a sense of disconnectedness and a rise in crime, substance abuse, and family violence. More recently, Pacific Islanders are returning to the core cultural values that have sustained them through difficult times. These include family, community, spirituality, and a holistic view of life and health (University of Hawai'i 1991).

Unfortunately, much of the available demographic and health data on AAPIs are of limited value because of the diversity among the peoples included. Without disaggregating the data, it is impossible to detect the great variations in income, education, and health status among AAPI populations, hiding serious socioeconomic and health problems both within and between subgroups.

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