Life expectancy among certain American Indian tribes is only 50 years of age as compared with 74.6 years for the general population. Leading causes of death among Indian infants continue to be respiratory, digestive, infective, parasitic disease, and congenital malformations. Child obesity, dental caries, atherosclerosis, iron deficiency anemia, and otitis media are prevalent. All are related to lack of good nutrition and inadequate living standards. Changes from traditional diets have produced an intake consisting of 54% fat, 30% carbohydrates, and 15% protein. Mothers or family caretakers have the most vital role in forming healthful eating practices for themselves and their families. Proper weight gain during pregnancy and avoidance of alcohol and drugs are critical to the birth of a healthy infant. Intolerance to milk, common among adult Indians, must be compensated for by inclusion of other dairy products in the diet to assure adequate calcium levels. The Indian Health Service endeavors to educate and train young mothers and families in a life style that will retain their health and vigor through many years. (NEC)