|
Making the Link between Health Knowledge
and Healthy Practice
THe NCCAH's Aboriginal ActNow and Preschool VIsion Screening programs:
-
collect and assess current research on Aboriginal health and chronic disease prevention,
-
identify gaps where more research is needed; and
-
make evidence relevant, meaningful and useful for diverse BC Aboriginal communities, health practitioners and policy-makers.
Our work has shown, for example, that very little is known about Aboriginal  preschool children's eye health or vision care; that there is a lack of Métis health data in general; and that little information exists on healthy choices in pregnancy beyond a focus on the prevention of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder.
Our Resources
To date, we have conducted our own research and commissioned experts to research and assess the most current and relevant information in each of the four pillars of Aboriginal ActNow. Examples of what we have published include:
- Fact Sheets on healthy choices in pregnancy, nutrition, physical activity, tobacco, demographics, and cultural competency.
- Research Summaries and Literature Reviews on Aboriginal sports, recreation and physical activity including strategies for promoting increased participation; healthy choices in pregnancy focusing on alcohol use in pregnancy and the prevention of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD); and an Aboriginal health promotion report that explores which strategies work best for Aboriginal peoples.
- Reports, Environmental Scans, and Evidence Reviews on tobacco cessation strategies for First Nations, Inuit and Métis; the role of physical activity, sport, and recreation as mental health interventions for Aboriginal British Columbians (upcoming), and an analysis and recommendations regarding healthy choices in pregnancy that supports the creation and generation of an Aboriginal-specific ActNow BC program in this field.
Access our Resources page on the navigation bar at the top of this page, or click here for a complete list and brief descriptions.
____________________
Some of the questions guiding our research initiatives include:
Find out more, including resources, programs, and links related to each of the four pillars by clicking on the links below, or using the index to the left.
While many bands and tribes in BC had a traditional relationship with tobacco, the mis-use of non-traditional commercial tobacco can lead to severe consequences for health. CLICK HERE to learn about tobacco cessation programs in Aboriginal communities, find out about the health issues at stake, and access related resources.
Traditional food was central to Aboriginal cultures and diet. The shift to more commercial foods has been rapid, along with growing concerns about contaminants and the depletion of wild food sources. Many Aboriginal groups are now experiencing significantly higher levels of nutrition-related health problems than other Canadians. CLICK HERE for more information.
Physical activity has been an integral part of all aspects of daily traditional practice, from berry-picking to hunting and fishing. Physical activity is key to well-being, mental health, and the health of communities, yet an increasingly sedentary lifestyle has been linked to increases in childhood obesity and related diseases. CLICK HERE to learn about physical activity programs and research relevant to Aboriginal communities.
Healthy choices in pregnancy can reduce chances of miscarriage, fetal and neonatal death, premature deliveries and sudden infant death syndrom. Broad community health actions that are supportive and health-enhancing may be key to successful prevention efforts. CLICK HERE for more information about pregancy and healthy choices in Aboriginal communities.
|
