Document Type : Short Communication
Authors
School of Population and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, BC, Canada
Abstract
Indigenous Peoples in Canada face significant environmental health challenges, including long-term, low-dose toxic exposures that contribute to pronounced health disparities compared to the general population.
The unequal distribution of industrial contamination and historical practices such as mercury dumping primarily drive these disproportionate toxic exposures.
The authors have conducted extensive research in this area including a community-based case study using a mixed-methods approach integrating community narratives and biomonitoring data. They aim to summarize their findings and potential countermeasure strategies that toxicologists working in public health can apply to define and improve health outcomes among minority groups in middle- and low-income countries.Many efforts have been made in recent decades to reduce exposure rates and restore traditional health practices; however, these communities still face heightened risks from contaminated food sources, ongoing socio-economic inequalities, and the degradation of their ecosystems.
Additionally, structural racism within healthcare systems and limited access to culturally appropriate care exacerbate these challenges.
This commentary highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive, culturally sensitive environmental health approach incorporating Indigenous knowledge systems and community-driven solutions. We emphasize the importance of participatory, Indigenous-led research to address cumulative health impacts, promote resilience, and reduce health inequities.
In conclusion, health authorities can develop sustainable strategies to reduce toxic exposures at the population level and support the health and well-being of Indigenous communities. This can be achieved through collaborative approaches that honour Indigenous sovereignty and embrace the principles of relevance, respect, and reciprocity.
These findings have important implications for reducing toxic exposures among minority groups in middle- and low-income countries. Addressing long-term low-dose toxic exposures among Indigenous Peoples in Canada requires culturally respectful and community-led environmental health approaches. Researchers and policymakers must engage in sustained, collaborative efforts recognizing Indigenous sovereignty and tailoring strategies beyond those used for the general population.
Keywords
- Social determinants of health
- Health equity
- Toxic exposure
- Indigenous population
- Environmental health
- Biomonitoring
- Persistent organic pollutants (POP)
- Community-based participatory research
Main Subjects
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