Health inequity is a serious problem in Canada. Nationally, First Nations people have life expectancies that are 4-6 years lower than non-Indigenous people. They have higher rates of some chronic diseases and face significant barriers to equitable care.
Specific to cancer, First Nations people have higher cancer mortality rates and are more likely to be diagnosed at a later stage when the cancer is more difficult to treat.
Indigenous People are less likely to have cancer screening tests done and much research has/is being done to understand how to improve screening rates.
In conjunction with the Northeast Regional Cancer Program cancer screening and supportive care teams, I produced this momentous evidence-based animated video series aimed to teach First Nation, Métis, Inuit and Urban Indigenous Peoples about cancer and cancer screening.
In particular, I’m proud that these videos are offered in English, French, Ojibwe and Cree.
Topics covered in these videos include:
What is cancer?
Breast Screening
Colorectal Screening
Lung Screening
Cervical Screening
HSN’s Indigenous Patient Navigator Services
The videos live on YouTube as well as Health Sciences North’s website. They have also been distributed to Indigenous communities across Northeastern Ontario.