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Abstract Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic period (2020 to 2022) challenged and overstretched the capacity of primary health care services to deliver health care globally. The sector faced a highly uncertain and dynamic period that encompassed anticipation of a new, unknown, lethal and highly transmissible infection, the introduction of various travel restrictions, health workforce shortages, new government funding announcements and various policies to restrict the spread of the COVID-19 virus, then vaccination and treatments. This qualitative study aims to document and explore how the pandemic affected primary health care utilisation and delivery in remote and regional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with staff working in 11 Aboriginal Community-Controlled Health Services (ACCHSs) in outer regional, remote and very remote Australia. Interviews were transcribed, inductively coded and thematically analysed. Results 248 staff working in outer regional, remote and very remote primary health care clinics were interviewed between February 2020 and June 2021. Participants reported a decline in numbers of primary health care presentations in most communities during the initial COVID-19 lock down period. The reasons for the decline were attributed to community members apprehension to go to the clinics, change in work priorities of primary health care staff (e.g. more emphasis on preventing the virus entering the communities and stopping the spread) and limited outreach programs. Staff forecasted a future spike in acute presentations of various chronic diseases leading to increased medical retrieval requirements from remote communities to hospital. Information dissemination during the pre-vaccine roll-out stage was perceived to be well received by community members, while vaccine roll-out stage information was challenged by misinformation circulated through social media. Conclusions The ability of ACCHSs to be able to adapt service delivery in response to the changing COVID-19 strategies and policies are highlighted in this study. The study signifies the need to adequately fund ACCHSs with staff, resources, space and appropriate information to enable them to connect with their communities and continue their work especially in an era where the additional challenges created by pandemics are likely to become more frequent. While the PHC seeking behaviour of community members during the COVID-19 period were aligned to the trends observed across the world, some of the reasons underlying the trends were unique to outer regional, remote and very remote populations. Policy makers will need to give due consideration to the potential effects of newly developed policies on ACCHSs operating in remote and regional contexts that already battle under resourcing issues and high numbers of chronically ill populations.

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic period (2020 to 2022) challenged and overstretched the capacity of primary health care services to deliver health care globally. The sector faced a highly uncertain and dynamic period that encompassed anticipation of a new, unknown, lethal and highly transmissible infection, the introduction of various travel restrictions, health workforce shortages, new government funding announcements and various policies to restrict the spread of the COVID-19 virus, then vaccination and treatments. This qualitative study aims to document and explore how the pandemic affected primary health care utilisation and delivery in remote and regional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with staff working in 11 Aboriginal Community-Controlled Health Services (ACCHSs) in outer regional, remote and very remote Australia. Interviews were transcribed, inductively coded and thematically analysed. Results: 248 staff working in outer regional, remote and very remote primary health care clinics were interviewed between February 2020 and June 2021. Participants reported a decline in numbers of primary health care presentations in most communities during the initial COVID-19 lock down period. The reasons for the decline were attributed to community members apprehension to go to the clinics, change in work priorities of primary health care staff (e.g. more emphasis on preventing the virus entering the communities and stopping the spread) and limited outreach programs. Staff forecasted a future spike in acute presentations of various chronic diseases leading to increased medical retrieval requirements from remote communities to hospital. Information dissemination during the pre-vaccine roll-out stage was perceived to be well received by community members, while vaccine roll-out stage information was challenged by misinformation circulated through social media. Conclusions: The ability of ACCHSs to be able to adapt service delivery in response to the changing COVID-19 strategies and policies are highlighted in this study. The study signifies the need to adequately fund ACCHSs with staff, resources, space and appropriate information to enable them to connect with their communities and continue their work especially in an era where the additional challenges created by pandemics are likely to become more frequent. While the PHC seeking behaviour of community members during the COVID-19 period were aligned to the trends observed across the world, some of the reasons underlying the trends were unique to outer regional, remote and very remote populations. Policy makers will need to give due consideration to the potential effects of newly developed policies on ACCHSs operating in remote and regional contexts that already battle under resourcing issues and high numbers of chronically ill populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The health inequities experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, rooted in the historical and ongoing negative impacts of colonisation and disrupted traditional lifestyles, sees higher rates of illness and hospitalisations, increased morbidity and higher premature death rates than other Australians. Nurses represent the majority of Australia’s health workforce and nursing students must have knowledge to provide culturally safe care to Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. An Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples’ Health and Wellbeing unit was developed and introduced into an undergraduate nursing curriculum. This project aimed to determine the effectiveness of the unit content in changing the attitude of nursing students towards care of First Nations peoples. A quasi-experimental design was used and included all undergraduate nursing students commencing this unit in 2020 at one university in Western Australia. Students completed a validated questionnaire prior to engaging with unit learning materials and again at completion of the unit. Complete paired data was available for 339 participants. Results demonstrated statistically significant change in attitude following completion of the unit. Embedding targeted education concerning Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ health and wellbeing positively influences attitudes in caring for this population of patients.

Abstract Background Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is highly prevalent within the Indigenous Australian community. Novel glucose monitoring technology offers an accurate approach to glycaemic management, providing real-time information on glucose levels and trends. The acceptability and feasibilility of this technology in Indigenous Australians with T2DM has not been investigated. Objective This feasibility phenomenological study aims to understand the experiences of Indigenous Australians with T2DM using flash glucose monitoring (FGM). Methods Indigenous Australians with T2DM receiving injectable therapy (n = 8) who used FGM (Abbott Freestyle Libre) for 6-months, as part of a clinical trial, participated in semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis of the interviews was performed using NVivo12 Plus qualitative data analysis software (QSR International). Results Six major themes emerged: 1) FGM was highly acceptable to the individual; 2) FGM’s convenience was its biggest benefit; 3) data from FGM was a tool to modify lifestyle choices; 4) FGM needed to be complemented with health professional support; 5) FGM can be a tool to engage communities in diabetes management; and 6) cost of the device is a barrier to future use. Conclusions Indigenous Australians with T2DM had positive experiences with FGM. This study highlights future steps to ensure likelihood of FGM is acceptable and effective within the wider Indigenous Australian community.

Abstract Background The COVID-19 pandemic increased the use of telehealth consultations by telephone and video around the world. While telehealth can improve access to primary health care, there are significant gaps in our understanding about how, when and to what extent telehealth should be used. This paper explores the perspectives of health care staff on the key elements relating to the effective use of telehealth for patients living in remote Australia. Methods Between February 2020 and October 2021, interviews and discussion groups were conducted with 248 clinic staff from 20 different remote communities across northern Australia. Interview coding followed an inductive approach. Thematic analysis was used to group codes into common themes. Results Reduced need to travel for telehealth consultations was perceived to benefit both health providers and patients. Telehealth functioned best when there was a pre-established relationship between the patient and the health care provider and with patients who had good knowledge of their personal health, spoke English and had access to and familiarity with digital technology. On the other hand, telehealth was thought to be resource intensive, increasing remote clinic staff workload as most patients needed clinic staff to facilitate the telehealth session and complete background administrative work to support the consultation and an interpreter for translation services. Clinic staff universally emphasised that telehealth is a useful supplementary tool, and not a stand-alone service model replacing face-to-face interactions. Conclusion Telehealth has the potential to improve access to healthcare in remote areas if complemented with adequate face-to-face services. Careful workforce planning is required while introducing telehealth into clinics that already face high staff shortages. Digital infrastructure with reliable internet connections with sufficient speed and latency need to be available at affordable prices in remote communities to make full use of telehealth consultations. Training and employment of local Aboriginal staff as digital navigators could ensure a culturally safe clinical environment for telehealth consultations and promote the effective use of telehealth services among community members.

Introduction: Several workforce development strategies have been developed to improve practice in Indigenous health and education settings. These programs are often not implemented well, and as a result, they don't have the intended effect on Indigenous health and education outcomes. Building capability of the health and education workforces is critical to improving health and education outcomes for Indigenous Peoples. Interventions that foster communities of practice are effective at influencing practice in various sectors, however no systematic reviews have investigated the impact of communities of practice in Indigenous health or education settings. Methods: This systematic review investigates the role of communities of practice in supporting existing workforce development strategies in Indigenous health and education settings. Seven databases were searched in 2019 and again in 2020. Data synthesis was through thematic analysis. Results: Eleven qualitative studies were included. Most community of practice interventions were situated in education settings. Interventions that foster community of practice can successfully include both Indigenous and non-Indigenous health and education professionals, allowing them to share personal stories, knowledge and resources and engage in personal and group reflection. This supports them to develop culturally responsive health and education tools, assessments and strategies and, therefore, may play a role in improving Indigenous health and education outcomes. Conclusion: Participation in communities of practice coupled with increased training and teaching about Indigenous culture may play a role in improving practice of Indigenous health and education professionals. Further research is required to determine what impact this has on Indigenous Peoples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic increased the use of telehealth consultations by telephone and video around the world. While telehealth can improve access to primary health care, there are significant gaps in our understanding about how, when and to what extent telehealth should be used. This paper explores the perspectives of health care staff on the key elements relating to the effective use of telehealth for patients living in remote Australia. Methods: Between February 2020 and October 2021, interviews and discussion groups were conducted with 248 clinic staff from 20 different remote communities across northern Australia. Interview coding followed an inductive approach. Thematic analysis was used to group codes into common themes. Results: Reduced need to travel for telehealth consultations was perceived to benefit both health providers and patients. Telehealth functioned best when there was a pre-established relationship between the patient and the health care provider and with patients who had good knowledge of their personal health, spoke English and had access to and familiarity with digital technology. On the other hand, telehealth was thought to be resource intensive, increasing remote clinic staff workload as most patients needed clinic staff to facilitate the telehealth session and complete background administrative work to support the consultation and an interpreter for translation services. Clinic staff universally emphasised that telehealth is a useful supplementary tool, and not a stand-alone service model replacing face-to-face interactions. Conclusion: Telehealth has the potential to improve access to healthcare in remote areas if complemented with adequate face-to-face services. Careful workforce planning is required while introducing telehealth into clinics that already face high staff shortages. Digital infrastructure with reliable internet connections with sufficient speed and latency need to be available at affordable prices in remote communities to make full use of telehealth consultations. Training and employment of local Aboriginal staff as digital navigators could ensure a culturally safe clinical environment for telehealth consultations and promote the effective use of telehealth services among community members. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionConcerns have been raised internationally about the palliative care needs of migrants and First Nations people. This article presents insights from research investigating the end-of-life needs of Aboriginal and culturally and linguistically diverse people living in Western Sydney, Australia. This region has a large rapidly growing, and highly diverse population and on average low socioeconomic status. The research was guided by an advisory panel made up of representatives of supportive and palliative medicine, bereavement support, Aboriginal health, and multicultural health facilities. It aimed to generate findings to support the delivery of culturally sensitive services in the public health system.MethodThe multi-method design and the conduct of the research were informed by the literature on researching with marginalized groups which highlights the ethical considerations needed to avoid replicating past injustices. Qualitative data was generated from key informants and community focus groups.ResultsThe analysis revealed seven themes and some suggested solutions which were relevant across several themes. The seven themes were: the Need for trusted relationships; Talking about death and dying; Knowledge of key services; Decision-making and obtaining consent from the patient; Appropriate physical spaces; Cultural practices around EOL; and Language barriers.DiscussionWithin each theme a variety of cultural beliefs and practices were revealed that conflicted with mainstream medical systems, indicating the need for changes in such systems. ‘Compassionate Communities' was identified as a model to support the necessary changes.

As the most prevalent aboriginal group on Hainan Island located between South China and the mainland of Southeast Asia, the Li people are believed to preserve some unique genetic information due to their isolated circumstances, although this has been largely uninvestigated. We performed the first whole-genome sequencing of 55 Hainan Li (HNL) individuals with high coverage (∼30–50×) to gain insight into their genetic history and potential adaptations. We identified the ancestry enriched in HNL (∼85%) is well preserved in present-day Tai-Kadai speakers residing in South China and North Vietnam, that is, Bai-Yue populations. A lack of admixture signature due to the geographical restriction exacerbated the bottleneck in the present-day HNL. The genetic divergence among Bai-Yue populations began ∼4,000–3,000 years ago when the proto-HNL underwent migration and the settling of Hainan Island. Finally, we identified signatures of positive selection in the HNL, some outstanding examples included FADS1 and FADS2 related to a diet rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids. In addition, we observed that malaria-driven selection had occurred in the HNL, with population-specific variants of malaria-related genes (e.g. CR1) present. Interestingly, HNL harbors a high prevalence of malaria leveraged gene variants related to hematopoietic function (e.g. CD3G) that may explain the high incidence of blood disorders such as B-cell lymphomas in the present-day HNL. The results have advanced our understanding of the genetic history of the Bai-Yue populations and have provided new insights into the adaptive scenarios of the Li people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hungary has, during the past three decades, developed what could arguably be described as one of the most advanced institutional systems of non-territorial autonomy in the world. Being so advanced does not of course mean the system is perfect or beyond criticism. But it does provide potentially useful insights into how non-territorial autonomy can or cannot work in practice. This article reflects on the institutional design of Hungary and asks whether principles can be identified that may be employed by indigenous groups in Australia and beyond in their search for a form of self-government. The theory and practice of non-territorial autonomy has so far been the focus of experts predominately from Central and Eastern Europe and the Russian Federation. This article considers whether any insight can be gained to apply the principles of non-territorial autonomy to other jurisdictions. The institutional design in place in Hungary may offer useful insight into how indigenous communities, particular some Aboriginal communities in Australia, may be bestowed with legal powers as a community to make decisions of a cultural and linguistic nature and to cooperate via the legal entity with local and state authorities. The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples refers to selfdetermination and autonomy without placing those terms into a specific set of institutional arrangements. Whereas non-territorial autonomy may not be suitable for all communities, this article contends that non-territorial arrangements may offer an opportunity for self-government to indigenous (and other) communities that share a strong sense of identity; that do not have a geographical base where they constitute the majority; and where a communal desire for a form of self-government in public law exists.

Australian tropical plants have been a rich source of food (bush food) and medicine to the first Australians (Aboriginal people), who are believed to have lived for more than 50,000 years. Plants such as spreading sneezeweed (Centipeda minima), goat's foot (Ipomoea pes-caprae), and hop bush (Dodonaea viscosa and D. polyandra) are a few popular Aboriginal medicinal plants. Thus far, more than 900 medicinal plants have been recorded in the tropical region alone, and many of them are associated with diverse ethnomedicinal uses that belong to the traditional owners of Aboriginal people. In our effort to find anti-inflammatory lead compounds in collaboration with Aboriginal communities from their medicinal plants, we reviewed 78 medicinal plants used against various inflammation and inflammatory-related conditions by Aboriginal people. Out of those 78 species, we have included only 45 species whose crude extracts or isolated pure compounds showed anti-inflammatory properties. Upon investigating compounds isolated from 40 species (for five species, only crude extracts were studied), 83 compounds were associated with various anti-inflammatory properties. Alphitolic acid, Betulinic acid, Malabaric acid, and Hispidulin reduced proinflammatory cytokines and cyclooxygenase enzymes (COX-1 and 2) with IC50 values ranging from 11.5 to 46.9 uM. Other promising anti-inflammatory compounds are Brevilin A (from Centipeda minima), Eupalestin, and 5′-methoxy nobiletin (from Ageratum conyzoides), Calophyllolide (from Calophyllum inophyllum), and Brusatol (from Brucea javanica). D. polyandra is one example of an Aboriginal medicinal plant from which a novel anti-inflammatory benzoyl ester clerodane diterpenoid compound was obtained (compound name not disclosed), and it is in the development of topical medicines for inflammatory skin diseases. Medicinal plants in the tropics and those associated with indigenous knowledge of Aboriginal people could be a potential alternative source of novel anti-inflammatory therapeutics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article studies issues of land tenure planning for implementation of projects aimed at industrial development of the Arctic. Using the example of Northern provinces of Canada it shows evolution of land tenure strategic planning, analyzes its role in social and economic development of the territory. It is shown that involvement of aboriginal people of the North in the process of planning the use of land, forest and other natural resources can lower conflicts among land users, mining companies and the local population, protect territories of traditional land tenure in places of residence and traditional natural resource use of aborigine people and create necessary conditions for the development of traditional types of activity and sustainable space development of the Arctic. Canadian experience of land tenure planning in development of Arctic territories in the area of aboriginal people residence can be used in the Arctic zone of the Russian Federation to balance interests of concerned parties, i.e. local bodies of power, business and aboriginal people of the North.

The purpose of this article is to review common assessment practices for Indigenous students. We start by presenting positionalities—our personal and professional background identities. Then we explain common terms associated with Indigeneity and Indigenous and Western worldviews. We describe the meaning of document analysis, the chosen qualitative research design, and we explicate the delimitations and limitations of the paper. The review of the literature revealed four main themes. First, assessment is subjugated by a Western worldview. Next, many linguistic assessment practices disadvantage Indigenous students, and language-specific and culture-laden standardized tests are often discriminatory. Last, there is a pervasive focus on cognitive assessment. We discuss how to improve assessment for Indigenous students. For example, school divisions and educators need quality professional development and knowledge about hands-on assessment, multiple intelligences, and Western versus Indigenous assessment inconsistencies. Within the past 20 years, assessment tactics for Indigenous students has remained, more or less, the same. We end with a short discussion addressing this point.

Hungary has, during the past three decades, developed what could arguably be described as one of the most advanced institutional systems of non-territorial autonomy in the world. Being so advanced does not of course mean the system is perfect or beyond criticism. But it does provide potentially useful insights into how non-territorial autonomy can or cannot work in practice. This article reflects on the institutional design of Hungary and asks whether principles can be identified that may be employed by indigenous groups in Australia and beyond in their search for a form of self-government. The theory and practice of non-territorial autonomy has so far been the focus of experts predominately from Central and Eastern Europe and the Russian Federation. This article considers whether any insight can be gained to apply the principles of non-territorial autonomy to other jurisdictions. The institutional design in place in Hungary may offer useful insight into how indigenous communities, particular some Aboriginal communities in Australia, may be bestowed with legal powers as a community to make decisions of a cultural and linguistic nature and to cooperate via the legal entity with local and state authorities. The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples refers to selfdetermination and autonomy without placing those terms into a specific set of institutional arrangements. Whereas non-territorial autonomy may not be suitable for all communities, this article contends that non-territorial arrangements may offer an opportunity for self-government to indigenous (and other) communities that share a strong sense of identity; that do not have a geographical base where they constitute the majority; and where a communal desire for a form of self-government in public law exists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Traditional and complementary medicines (T&CM) are any form of medicine, practice, treatment, product, technology, knowledge system or ceremony outside of conventional medical practice that aims to prevent and/or treat illness and/or promote well-being. Alongside conventional cancer treatments, T&CM usage is increasing; with 19% of indigenous Australians with cancer reporting using T&CM. There is limited evidence surrounding T&CM use and disclosure by indigenous patients. Our aim was to explore healthcare providers’ views about usage, disclosure/non-disclosure of T&CM by Indigenous cancer patients. Methods Semi-structured, in-depth interviews with 18 healthcare providers, including three indigenous providers, at a large urban hospital providing care to Indigenous cancer patients were conducted to explore providers’ experiences and attitudes towards T&CM use by Indigenous cancer patients. An interpretive phenomenological approach was used to thematically analyse the data. Results Analysis revealed six themes: concern about risk; no ‘real’ benefits; perception of T&CM and conventional medicine as antithetical; barriers to disclosure; ‘patients’ choice’ a double-edged sword; and providers’ lack of knowledge about T&CM. Healthcare providers perceived discord between T&CM and conventional medicine. Most lacked knowledge of T&CM, and had concerns around negative-interactions with conventional treatments. They considered T&CM outside their role, citing this as reasoning for their lack of knowledge. Indigenous healthcare providers had greater understanding and openness towards T&CM. Conclusions Given the potential usage of T&CM by Indigenous cancer patients, providers need a more comprehensive understanding of T&CM in order to inform discussion and facilitate effective disclosure on this topic. If indigenous Australians with cancer feel that cancer care providers are unreceptive to discussing T&CM, patient care risks being compromised; particularly given the potential for negative interactions between T&CM and conventional cancer treatments. Fostering health care interactions where indigenous patients feel comfortable to discuss T&CM usage should be a priority for all cancer care services.

Australian tropical plants have been a rich source of food (bush food) and medicine to the first Australians (Aboriginal people), who are believed to have lived for more than 50,000 years. Plants such as spreading sneezeweed (Centipeda minima), goat’s foot (Ipomoea pes-caprae), and hop bush (Dodonaea viscosa and D. polyandra) are a few popular Aboriginal medicinal plants. Thus far, more than 900 medicinal plants have been recorded in the tropical region alone, and many of them are associated with diverse ethnomedicinal uses that belong to the traditional owners of Aboriginal people. In our effort to find anti-inflammatory lead compounds in collaboration with Aboriginal communities from their medicinal plants, we reviewed 78 medicinal plants used against various inflammation and inflammatory-related conditions by Aboriginal people. Out of those 78 species, we have included only 45 species whose crude extracts or isolated pure compounds showed anti-inflammatory properties. Upon investigating compounds isolated from 40 species (for five species, only crude extracts were studied), 83 compounds were associated with various anti-inflammatory properties. Alphitolic acid, Betulinic acid, Malabaric acid, and Hispidulin reduced proinflammatory cytokines and cyclooxygenase enzymes (COX-1 and 2) with IC50 values ranging from 11.5 to 46.9 uM. Other promising anti-inflammatory compounds are Brevilin A (from Centipeda minima), Eupalestin, and 5′-methoxy nobiletin (from Ageratum conyzoides), Calophyllolide (from Calophyllum inophyllum), and Brusatol (from Brucea javanica). D. polyandra is one example of an Aboriginal medicinal plant from which a novel anti-inflammatory benzoyl ester clerodane diterpenoid compound was obtained (compound name not disclosed), and it is in the development of topical medicines for inflammatory skin diseases. Medicinal plants in the tropics and those associated with indigenous knowledge of Aboriginal people could be a potential alternative source of novel anti-inflammatory therapeutics.

Orang Asli is part of Malaysian citizens. Orang Asli community has their own rights and privilege as contained in Orang Asli Act (Act 134), dan Malaysian Federal Constitution. Other than that, the land ownership was referred widely which covered the rights and the importance of land ownership, reserved lands receiver or license holder to stay on government lands. They were considered as the lands' owner and have the privilege to use it as stated in Section 44 and Section 45 in the state land code. Accordingly, this study aims to analyze the level of acceptance of Orang Asli towards land ownership. To achieve the objectives, quantitative methods were used by distributing questionnaires to 60 respondents from Sungai Buah village and Jenderam Hilir village, Sepang Selangor. The results of the study found that the level of acceptance of the Aboriginal people to grant land is high. This is clear when the level of acceptance of Indigenous peoples towards land grants is found to be influenced by factors in socio-cultural, environmental, economic and identity. The research result found that the state of agreement was high towards the granted land ownership. Orang Asli need the understanding and detailed information about the granted land ownership without any manipulated details before it is accepted by all. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article will aim to demonstrate how we applied a collaborative dialogical research approach to understand perspectives of an Aboriginal wellbeing program by extending Habermas' Theory of Communicative Action to respect Australian Aboriginal ways of knowing, being and doing. This process aims to disrupt the colonizing discourse by bridging the disconnect between Indigenous decolonizing methods and Western knowledges, toward a dialogical, respectful, appropriate and reciprocally beneficial research project. We discuss how layers of reflexivity (self, interpersonal and collective) have a role in communicative relationality (trust and shared decision making). We propose cross-cultural communicative relationality is strengthened by three key researcher actions; inner listening, relational actions beyond discourse and collective knowledge, along with Habermas criteria for discerning the motivations of action (communicative vs strategic). This article provides researchers from a variety of disciplines a way to respectively research in the critical paradigm while considering Aboriginal ways toward building a relationship that is mutually beneficial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the past forty or so years, many Indigenous peoples in former settler colonies have fought for, and in many instances won, recognition of their rights to have the bodily remains of their ancestors returned from Western museums and other scientific institutions for burial. It has been a remarkable achievement. However, as this article highlights, in the Australian context, the efforts of Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islanders to secure and bury the remains of their ancestors as their cultures require have, in many cases, been complicated by challenges arising from the need to revitalize or re-establish continuities with the ancestral past eroded by settler colonialism, while seeking restoration of their ownership rights in respect of land and cultural heritage in the contemporary Australian context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Monitoring of fur-bearing species populations is relatively rare due to their low densities. In addition to catch data, trappers’ experience provides information on the ecology and status of the harvested species. Fisher (Pekania pennanti) and American marten (Martes americana) are mustelids that are sensitive to forest management and therefore considered to be ecological indicators of forest health. Fisher populations have increased in eastern North America since the early 2000s and this could have resulted in a northeastern extension of the species’ range and increased overlap with marten’s range. Moreover, habitats of both species are subject to natural and anthropogenic disturbances. The objective of this study was to document the knowledge held by local trappers in the northern area of sympatry between fisher and marten to identify factors that could explain variation in populations of the two species and interactions between them. Method Forty-one semi-directed interviews with Indigenous and non-Indigenous trappers in the Abitibi-Témiscamingue region of western Quebec (Canada), at the northern limit of the overlapping ranges of the two mustelid species. Results Trappers highlighted the lack of exclusivity of marten and fisher to coniferous forests, although marten is more closely associated with them than is fisher. Fisher apparently also takes advantage of open environments, including agroforestry systems. Moreover, climate change increases the frequency of freeze-thaw events that cause the formation of an ice crust on the snow surface, which favors fisher movements. Conclusion The fisher was identified as a competitor and even a predator of the marten. Furthermore, the fisher is less affected than the marten by forest management, and it also seems to benefit from climate change to a greater extent.

Abstract Background Aboriginal Australians have worse cancer survival rates than other Australians. Reasons include fear of a cancer diagnosis, reluctance to attend mainstream health services and discrimination from health professionals. Offering health professionals education in care focusing on Aboriginal patients’ needs is important. The aim of this paper was to evaluate whether participating in a workshop improved the confidence of radiation oncology health professionals in their knowledge, communication and ability to offer culturally safe healthcare to Aboriginal Australians with cancer. Methods Mixed methods using pre and post workshop online surveys, and one delivered 2 months later, were evaluated. Statistical analysis determined the relative proportion of participants who changed from not at all/a little confident at baseline to fairly/extremely confident immediately and 2 months after the workshop. Factor analysis identified underlying dimensions in the items and nonparametric tests recorded changes in mean dimension scores over and between times. Qualitative data was analysed for emerging themes. Results Fifty-nine participants attended the workshops, 39 (66% response rate) completed pre-workshop surveys, 32 (82% of study participants) completed post-workshop surveys and 25 (64% of study participants) completed surveys 2 months later. A significant increase in the proportion of attendees who reported fair/extreme confidence within 2 days of the workshop was found in nine of 14 items, which was sustained for all but one item 2 months later. Two additional items had a significant increase in the proportion of fair/extremely confident attendees 2 months post workshop compared to baseline. An exploratory factor analysis identified three dimensions: communication; relationships; and awareness. All dimensions’ mean scores significantly improved within 2 days (p

Los derechos humanos de los pueblos originarios, entre ellos, el derecho a la salud, son reconocidos por la Constitución Argentina, por tratados internacionales ratificados por nuestro país, por la normativa interna y por las constituciones provinciales. La Corte Suprema de Justicia de la Nación, mediante el fallo en análisis, establece que la protección de estos derechos debe asegurarse por la vía más idónea, y que, al existir una acción de amparo en curso, la medida cautelar de interposición más reciente, debe ser rechazada. The Argentinian Constitution, the international human rights treaties ratified by Argentina, the argentine internal regulations and the constitution of several provinces, recognize the aboriginal´s human rights, including the right to health. In the judgment in analysis, the Argentinian Supreme Court of Justice, states that the protection of those rights needs to be accomplish by the most suitable way. When a legal protection action is in curse, the most recently filed action must be rejected.

Socially accountable health curricula, designed to decrease Aboriginal health inequities through the transformation of health professional students into culturally safe practitioners, has become a focal point for health professional programmes. Despite this inclusion in health curricula there remains the question of how to best assess students in this area in relation to the concept, of cultural safety and transformative unlearning, to facilitate attitudinal change. To address this question, this study developed a research questionnaire to measure thematic areas of transformative unlearning, cultural safety and critical thinking in Aboriginal Health for application on undergraduate and postgraduate students and faculty staff. The Likert-scale questionnaire was developed and validated through face and content validity. Test–retest methodology was utilised to determine stability and reliability of the questionnaire with 40 participants. The extent of agreement and reliability were determined through weighted kappa and intraclass correlation coefficient. Exploratory factor analysis was calculated to determine construct validity for questionnaire items. For the overall population subset the tool met good standards of reliability and validity, with 11 of the 15 items reaching moderate agreement (κ > 0.6) and an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.72, suggesting substantial agreement. Cronbach's alpha was calculated above 0.7 for the thematic areas. The majority of items provided high factor loadings, low loading items will be reviewed to strengthen the tool, where validations of the revised tool with a larger cohort will allow future use to compare and determine effective teaching methodologies in Aboriginal health and cultural safety curricula.

Abstract Background This study aimed to characterise the factors relating to participation in a postal follow-up study in Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal individuals, given the need to quantify potential biases from loss to follow-up and the lack of evidence regarding postal surveys among Aboriginal people. Methods The first 100,000 participants from the Sax Institute’s 45 and Up Study, a large scale cohort study, were posted a follow-up questionnaire gathering general demographic, health and risk factor data, emphasising Social, Economic and Environmental Factors (“The SEEF Study”). For each variable of interest, percentages of those invited who went on to participate in follow-up were tabulated separately for Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal participants and age- and sex-adjusted participation rate ratios (aPRR) were calculated. Results Of the 692 Aboriginal and 97,178 non-Aboriginal invitees to the study, 314 Aboriginal (45 %) and 59,175 non-Aboriginal (61 %) individuals responded. While Aboriginal people were less likely to respond than non-Aboriginal people (aPRR 0.72, 95 % CI 0.66–0.78), factors related to response were similar. Follow-up study participants were more likely than non-participants to have university versus no educational qualifications (1.6, 1.3–2.0 [Aboriginal]; 1.5, 1.5–1.5 [non-Aboriginal]) and an annual income of ≥70,000 versus

Based in oral traditions and song cycles, contemporary Aboriginal Australian poetry is full of allusions to the environment. Not merely a physical backdrop for human activities, the ancient Aboriginal landscape is a nexus of ecological, spiritual, material, and more-than-human overlays—and one which is increasingly compromised by modern technological impositions. In literary studies, while Aboriginal poetry has become the subject of critical interest, few studies have foregrounded the interconnections between environment and technology. Instead, scholarship tends to focus on the socio-political and cultural dimensions of the writing. How have contemporary Australian Aboriginal poets responded to the impacts of environmental change and degradation? How have poets addressed the effects of modern technology in ancestral environments, or country? This article will develop an ecocritical and technology-focused perspective on contemporary Aboriginal poetry through an analysis of the writings of three significant literary-activists: Jack Davis (1917–2000), Oodgeroo Noonuccal (1920–1993), and Lionel Fogarty (born 1958). Davis, Noonuccal, and Fogarty strive poetically to draw critical attention to the particular impacts of late modernist technologies on Aboriginal people and country. In developing a critique of invasive technologies that adversely affect the environment and culture, their poetry also invokes the Aboriginal technologies that sustained (and, in places, still sustain) people in reciprocal relation to country.

Background: Health surveys are a rich source of information on a variety of health issues, including health care. Objectives: This article compares various national and regional surveys in terms of their geographical coverage with respect to the Canadian North, especially their Aboriginal population, and the comparability of the survey contents relating to health care. Methods: Three surveys were selected as providing some information on health care, with separate estimates for the North and its Aboriginal populations. They are the Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS), Aboriginal Peoples Survey (APS) and the First Nations Regional Health Survey (RHS). Results: Different surveys focus on different categories of Aboriginal people, and no single survey has covered all categories of Aboriginal people in the North consistently. RHS is targeted at the on-reserve First Nations population only. APS and CCHS sample the off-reserve First Nations population as well as Métis and Inuit. To achieve adequate sample size for North–South comparisons and comparisons among Aboriginal groups within the North, several cycles of the biennial/annual CCHS can be merged, producing a large data set with consistent coverage of topics using comparable questions. The content areas of the 3 surveys can be broadly categorized as health status, health determinants and health care. Substantial variation exists across surveys in the domains covered. There are also changes over time in terms of definitions, questions and even basic concepts. The available health care content of the 3 surveys focus on access to different types of health services, contact with different categories of health professionals, unmet health needs and the use of preventive services. Many important dimensions of health care are not covered. Not all these basic indicators are available for the North or its Aboriginal populations. Conclusions: A comprehensive survey of health care in the North with sufficient sample size to provide reliable estimates for its subpopulations – urban and remote, Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal, and First Nations, Inuit and Métis – would provide useful information to decision-makers and service providers. Analytical studies can also be conducted to investigate the correlations and interactions among health status, health determinants and health care and assess whether such relationships differ among the different population groups.

In 2004, Dr. Marlene Brant-Castellano published a well-received, and now widely cited article entitled "Ethics of Aboriginal research" in the inaugural issue of the Journal of Aboriginal Health. About a decade after this inspirational publication, we asked her to reflect on (1) the progress made in terms of ethics of research with Aboriginal people; (2) her views on concrete ways to decolonize research; and (3) challenges yet to overcome in terms of ethical conduct of research with Aboriginal people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is a preliminary study to seek the influence of the socio-cultural one of aboriginal communities, Kanaq tribe on their acceptance of external elements other than their culture. The external element focused on this study is the mastery of the second language, which is Malay Language. Qualitative method is used this study consisting of literature study and fieldwork. Through the field method, the researcher used interviewing techniques and observation. Five respondents were involved in this study consisting of three Kanaqan teenagers and two experts. The location of this study was Kampung Sungai Selangi, Kota Tinggi, Johor. This study found that Kanaq tribe has strong sociocultural and refused external elements that can help to improve their quality of life. This explains the need for community of aboriginals' socio-cultural to be raised in order to help them master in Malay Language. Through the discussion of this issue, this paper proposes an implementation of ethnographic approach from a socio-cultural perspective faced by the aboriginal community in mastering Malay Language. It is important that these issues are assessed and understood in more depth and comprehensiveness. This research may provide a proposal for the development of the language learning model framework, especially at the secondary school level in assisting the aboriginal community to master in Malay language by taking their socio-cultural aspects of their lives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Objective: To determine trends in health status over a 10‐year interval in a high‐risk remote Australian Aboriginal community. Methods: Two health surveys were performed, one between 1992 and 1997 and the other between 2004 and 2006, on people aged five years or older. Outcomes were compared across age‐matched and sex‐matched pairs. Results: There were 1,209 matched pairs. In the second survey, birthweights tended to be higher, and there were significant increases in heights of adolescents and young adults, and high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C) levels generally. Young adult males were lighter, had lower measurements for waist circumference and blood pressure and less frequently had overt‐albuminuria, while elevated blood pressure was less common in older males. However, females ≥15 years had higher measurements for waist circumference, waist to hip ratio (WHR), body mass index (BMI) and diastolic blood pressure and a higher proportion of diabetes, notably in those aged older than 45 years. Males aged 15–24 years were less likely to be smokers while women aged less than 45 years were more often current drinkers. Conclusions: Results indicative of better nutrition among youth, better health of young adult males, stable or lower levels of albuminuria and improved HDL levels are all encouraging. The waist circumference increase in females might reflect better food access. An increase in diabetes in older subjects probably reflects recent enhanced survival of middle‐aged and older people with – and at risk for – diabetes.

Background: Aboriginal Australians have worse cancer survival rates than other Australians. Reasons include fear of a cancer diagnosis, reluctance to attend mainstream health services and discrimination from health professionals. Offering health professionals education in care focusing on Aboriginal patients' needs is important. The aim of this paper was to evaluate whether participating in a workshop improved the confidence of radiation oncology health professionals in their knowledge, communication and ability to offer culturally safe healthcare to Aboriginal Australians with cancer.Methods: Mixed methods using pre and post workshop online surveys, and one delivered 2 months later, were evaluated. Statistical analysis determined the relative proportion of participants who changed from not at all/a little confident at baseline to fairly/extremely confident immediately and 2 months after the workshop. Factor analysis identified underlying dimensions in the items and nonparametric tests recorded changes in mean dimension scores over and between times. Qualitative data was analysed for emerging themes.Results: Fifty-nine participants attended the workshops, 39 (66% response rate) completed pre-workshop surveys, 32 (82% of study participants) completed post-workshop surveys and 25 (64% of study participants) completed surveys 2 months later. A significant increase in the proportion of attendees who reported fair/extreme confidence within 2 days of the workshop was found in nine of 14 items, which was sustained for all but one item 2 months later. Two additional items had a significant increase in the proportion of fair/extremely confident attendees 2 months post workshop compared to baseline. An exploratory factor analysis identified three dimensions: communication; relationships; and awareness. All dimensions' mean scores significantly improved within 2 days (p < 0.005) and persisted to 2 months. The workshop raised awareness about barriers and enablers to delivering services respectful of cultural differences, led to a willingness to reflect on pre-existing beliefs and assumptions about Aboriginal Australians that in some cases resulted in improved care.Conclusion: Single workshops co-delivered by an Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal presenter can be effective in building health professionals' confidence and translating into practice knowledge of respectful care of Aboriginal patients with cancer. Sustaining improvements may require integrating this approach into ongoing professional development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Monitoring of fur-bearing species populations is relatively rare due to their low densities. In addition to catch data, trappers' experience provides information on the ecology and status of the harvested species. Fisher (Pekania pennanti) and American marten (Martes americana) are mustelids that are sensitive to forest management and therefore considered to be ecological indicators of forest health. Fisher populations have increased in eastern North America since the early 2000s and this could have resulted in a northeastern extension of the species' range and increased overlap with marten's range. Moreover, habitats of both species are subject to natural and anthropogenic disturbances. The objective of this study was to document the knowledge held by local trappers in the northern area of sympatry between fisher and marten to identify factors that could explain variation in populations of the two species and interactions between them. Method: Forty-one semi-directed interviews with Indigenous and non-Indigenous trappers in the Abitibi- Témiscamingue region of western Quebec (Canada), at the northern limit of the overlapping ranges of the two mustelid species. Results: Trappers highlighted the lack of exclusivity of marten and fisher to coniferous forests, although marten is more closely associated with them than is fisher. Fisher apparently also takes advantage of open environments, including agroforestry systems. Moreover, climate change increases the frequency of freeze-thaw events that cause the formation of an ice crust on the snow surface, which favors fisher movements. Conclusion: The fisher was identified as a competitor and even a predator of the marten. Furthermore, the fisher is less affected than the marten by forest management, and it also seems to benefit from climate change to a greater extent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eastern white pine (Pinus strobus L.) is a cultural keystone tree species in the forests of eastern North America, providing numerous ecosystem services to Indigenous people. White pine abundance in the landscape has considerably decreased over the last few centuries due to overharvesting, suppression of surface fires, extensive management, and plantation failure. The Kitcisakik Algonquin community of western Quebec is calling for restoration and sustainable management of white pine on its ancestral territory, to ensure provision of associated ecosystem services. We present five white pine restoration and management scenarios taking into account community needs and ecological types: (1) natural regeneration of scattered white pines to produce individuals of different sizes and ages used as medicinal plants; (2) protection of supercanopy white pines used as landmarks and for providing habitat for flagship wildlife species, and younger individuals left as regeneration and future canopy trees; (3) the uniform shelterwood system to create white pine-dominated stands that provide habitat for flagship wildlife species and support cultural activities; (4) under-canopy plantations to yield mature white pine stands for timber production; (5) mixed plantations to produce forests with aesthetic qualities that provide wildlife habitat and protect biodiversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Concerns have been raised internationally about the palliative care needs of migrants and First Nations people. This article presents insights from research investigating the end-of-life needs of Aboriginal and culturally and linguistically diverse people living in Western Sydney, Australia. This region has a large rapidly growing, and highly diverse population and on average low socioeconomic status. The research was guided by an advisory panel made up of representatives of supportive and palliative medicine, bereavement support, Aboriginal health, and multicultural health facilities. It aimed to generate findings to support the delivery of culturally sensitive services in the public health system., Method: The multi-method design and the conduct of the research were informed by the literature on researching with marginalized groups which highlights the ethical considerations needed to avoid replicating past injustices. Qualitative data was generated from key informants and community focus groups., Results: The analysis revealed seven themes and some suggested solutions which were relevant across several themes. The seven themes were: the Need for trusted relationships; Talking about death and dying; Knowledge of key services; Decision-making and obtaining consent from the patient; Appropriate physical spaces; Cultural practices around EOL; and Language barriers., Discussion: Within each theme a variety of cultural beliefs and practices were revealed that conflicted with mainstream medical systems, indicating the need for changes in such systems. 'Compassionate Communities' was identified as a model to support the necessary changes., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2023 Leonard, Paton, Hinton, Greenaway and Thomson.)

The Indigenous community in Australia is beset by extraordinary disadvantage, with health outcomes that are substantially worse than those of non-Indigenous citizens. This issue has consequently been the subject of voluminous health research that has given rise to a range of affirmative action policies progressively implemented over the past decade. Statistics, however, remain dire. This paper argues that new models of research practice and policy are required that are inclusive of Indigenous ways of knowing, doing, and being. It proposes a new framework to promote wellness in urban hospitals for Aboriginal young people and their families modelled on equal, 2-way dialogue between Western and Indigenous ways of doing health. Cultural safety is an essential starting point, but a range of other practices is proposed including oversight by a board of Elders, inclusion of traditional healers in treatment teams, and "space, place, and base" within the hospital building and its grounds so that it can be used as a site for culturally engaged Indigenous outpatient care. Practice approaches that embed culture into assessment, formulation, and treatment are being trialled by the authors of this paper, three of whom have Aboriginal heritage. Together the authors are working toward building an Aboriginal Knowledge Place within the major teaching hospital where they work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ObjectivesThis retrospective cohort study compared rates of emergency department (ED) visits after a diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in the three Aboriginal groups (Registered First Nations, Métis and Inuit) relative to a non-Aboriginal cohort.MethodsWe linked eight years of administrative health data from Alberta and calculated age- and sex-standardized ED visit rates in cohorts of Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal individuals diagnosed with COPD. Rate ratios (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated in a Poisson regression model that adjusted for important sociodemographic factors and comorbidities. Differences in ED length of stay (LOS) and disposition status were also evaluated.ResultsA total of 2,274 Aboriginal people and 1,611 non-Aboriginals were newly diagnosed with COPD during the study period. After adjusting for important sociodemographic and clinical factors, the rate of all-cause ED visits in all Aboriginal people (RR=1.72, 95% CI: 1.67, 1.77), particularly among Registered First Nations people (RR=2.02; 95% CI: 1.97, 2.08) and Inuit (RR=1.28; 95% CI: 1.22, 1.35), were significantly higher than that in non-Aboriginals, while ED visit rates were significantly lower in the Métis (RR=0.94; 95% CI: 0.90, 0.98). The ED LOS in all Aboriginal groups were significantly lower than that of the non-Aboriginal group.ConclusionsAboriginal people with COPD use almost twice the amount of ED services compared to their non-Aboriginal counterparts. There are also important variations in patterns of ED services use among different Aboriginal groups with COPD in Alberta. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

I am an Educator. I am also an Aboriginal designer and carver. These two beings though are complimentary. My work is inspired by the practice of carving – a practice long undertaken by Aboriginal peoples right around the country known as Australia. Carvings can include tree carving or ‘dendroglyphs’ and ‘petroglyphs’ or rock carvings or rock engravings. My specific influence is the tree carvers as my father and his father both worked in the bush.

Abstract Objective : To examine the trends of all‐cause natural mortality for people aged 15 years and over in a remote Australian Aboriginal community between 1996 and 2010. Methods : The annual population in the community by gender and age group was obtained from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). All known deaths and all records of start of renal replacement therapy (RRT) for renal failure were recorded between 1996 and 2010. Five‐year aggregated death rates were calculated and the changes in natural mortality over the interval were evaluated. Mortality was compared with those of the Northern Territory (NT) Indigenous and non‐Indigenous people as a whole from 1998 to 2006. Results : Rates of natural deaths were lower in the third interval 2006–2010 relative to the first interval 1996–2000, with higher, but more rapidly falling rates for females than males. Reductions were prominent for both sexes in the 65 and over age groups, but death rates in females of earlier middle age also trended lower. The trends applied whether or not the starting of RRT was considered as a natural death. There was a similar trend in rates of natural death in the aggregate Indigenous population of NT. Conclusions: The downward trends probably reflect improvements in risk factor status since the 1960s, all‐of‐life health interventions, as well as better chronic disease management in the last two decades. The higher death rates in females than males in this community remain unexplained, but the rapid rate of decline of female death rates predicts that this gap will soon be minimised.

Progress has been slow in improving health disparities between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (Indigenous) Australians and other Australians. While reasons for this are complex, delivering healthcare respectful of cultural differences is one approach to improving Indigenous health outcomes. This paper presents and evaluates an intercultural academic leadership programme developed to support tertiary educators teaching Indigenous health and culture prepare interdisciplinary students to work respectfully and appropriately as health professionals with Indigenous peoples. The programme acknowledges the impact of colonisation on Indigenous Australians and draws on theories of the intercultural space to inform reflection and discussion on Indigenous/non-Indigenous relations and their impact on healthcare. Furthermore, the programme encourages establishing a community of practice as a resource for educators. Evaluation indicated participants’ confidence to teach Indigenous content increased following the programme. Participants felt more able to create intercultural, interdisciplinary and interactive learning spaces that were inclusive and safe for students from all cultures. Participants learned skills to effectively facilitate and encourage students to grapple with the complexity of the intercultural space, often tense, uncertain and risky, to enable new understandings and positions to emerge that could better prepare graduates to work in Indigenous health contexts.

Abstract Objective: Aboriginal Australians are disproportionately affected by hepatitis C (HCV). There are a range of barriers to HCV care, often beginning with poor diagnosis experiences. Little research exists on the experiences of Aboriginal Australians living with HCV. This study aimed to describe their patterns of HCV care and treatment with specific emphasis on the impact of their being informed of their diagnosis in a culturally sensitive manner. Methods: A total of 203 Aboriginal people living with HCV were recruited to complete a survey assessing experiences of HCV testing and care, HCV knowledge, lifestyle changes after diagnosis, perceived stigma and discrimination. Results: Of the sample, 58% were male and 96% identified as Aboriginal, with a mean age of 28 years. Correlation analysis revealed that satisfaction with the cultural appropriateness of the diagnosis was associated with: being offered pre‐ and post‐test counselling; satisfaction with HCV care; decreased feelings of HCV‐related stigma; lower scores on the medical mistrust scale; and greater intentions to access HCV treatment. Conclusions: These findings confirm the importance of providing a HCV diagnosis in a culturally appropriate way for Aboriginal people. Implications: Satisfaction with HCV diagnosis appears essential in establishing patterns of greater engagement with HCV care and treatment for this group.

Background Asthma affects at least 10% of Aboriginal children (aged 11 or younger) in Canada, making it the second most common chronic disease suffered by this demographic group; yet asthma support strategies specific to Aboriginal peoples have only begun to be identified. Community Context This research builds on earlier phases of a recent study focused on identifying the support needs and intervention preferences of Aboriginal children with asthma and their parents or caregivers. Here, we seek to identify the implications of our initial findings for asthma programs, policies, and practices in an Aboriginal context and to determine strategies for implementing prevention programs in Aboriginal communities. Methods Five focus groups were conducted with 22 recruited community health care professionals and school personnel in 5 Mi’kmaq communities in Unama’ki (Cape Breton), Nova Scotia, Canada, through a community-based participatory research design. Each focus group was first introduced to findings from a local “social support for asthma” intervention, and then the groups explored issues associated with implementing social support from their respective professional positions. Outcome Thematic analysis revealed 3 key areas of opportunity and challenges for implementing asthma prevention and management initiatives in Mi’kmaq communities in terms of 1) professional awareness, 2) local school issues, and 3) community health centers. Interpretation Culturally relevant support initiatives are feasible and effective community-driven ways of improving asthma support in Mi’kmaq communities; however, ongoing assistance from the local leadership (ie, chief and council), community health directors, and school administrators, in addition to partnerships with respiratory health service organizations, is needed.

Objective. To compare the current state of health research on Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal youth in Canada. Design. A search of published academic literature on Canadian Aboriginal youth health, including a comprehensive review of both non-Aboriginal and Aboriginal youth research, was conducted using MEDLINE and summarized. Methodology. A MEDLINE search was conducted for articles published over a 10-year period (2000–2010). The search was limited to research articles pertaining to Canadian youth, using various synonyms for “Canada,” “youth,” and “Aboriginal.” Each article was coded according to 4 broad categories: Aboriginal identity, geographic location, research topic (health determinants, health status, health care), and the 12 key determinants of health proposed by the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC). Results. Of the 117 articles reviewed, only 34 pertained to Aboriginal youth, while the remaining 83 pertained to non-Aboriginal youth. The results revealed major discrepancies within the current body of research with respect to the geographic representation of Aboriginal youth, with several provinces missing from the literature, including the northern territories. Furthermore, the current research is not reflective of the demographic composition of Aboriginal youth, with an under-representation of Métis and urban Aboriginal youth. Health status of Aboriginal youth has received the most attention, appearing in 79% of the studies reviewed compared with 57% of the non-Aboriginal studies. The number of studies that focus on health determinants and health care is comparable for both groups, with the former accounting for 62 and 64% and the latter comprising 26 and 19% of Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal studies, respectively. However, this review reveals several differences with respect to specific focus on health determinants between the two populations. In non-Aboriginal youth studies, all the 12 key determinants of health of PHAC are explored, whereas in Aboriginal youth studies the health profile remains incomplete and several key determinants and health indicators are neglected. Conclusions. The current studies are not reflective of the demographic and geographic profiles of Aboriginal youth in Canada, and they have also failed to provide a comprehensive examination of their unique health needs and concerns compared with studies on non-Aboriginal youth.

One of the main arguments in Locke’s theory was that the Aboriginals were underdeveloped and were living in simply organized societies based on a self-sufficient economy which could not produce any extra profit. In other words, in Locke’s view there existed two economic worlds – one European which had a potential for making profit, and one aboriginal, mainly connected with a barter economy. The research focus is the attempt to deny Locke’s myth about aboriginal economies at the time of the first contact with European colonizers.

Diabetes is one of the most well-known and well-researched non-communicable diseases known to humankind. The goal of this article is to show that the prevalence of diabetes is constantly increasing among indigenous people, a major population subgroup in Canada. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were used to conduct this systematic review, and the databases used were PubMed and Google Scholar. Studies that were published in the last 15 years (2007-2022) were selected for this review, and after applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, screening, and removing duplicates, 10 articles were selected for the final review - three qualitative studies, three observational studies, and four studies without a specified methodology. We used the JBI (Joanna Briggs Institute) checklist, NOS (Newcastle-Ottawa Scale) checklist, and SANRA (Scale for the Assessment of Narrative Review) checklist for quality assessment. We found that all the articles showed that the prevalence of diabetes is increasing in all the Aboriginal communities despite all the interventional programs already in place. Rigorous health plans, health education, and wellness clinics for primary prevention can all be effective in reducing the potential risks of diabetes. More studies exploring the prevalence, effects, and outcomes of diabetes in the indigenous population of Canada are needed to effectively understand the disease and its complications in this group., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2023, Cheran et al.)

La mondialisation est un phénomène très complexe, qui implique à la fois l’émergence de l’économie de marché, l’accélération du commerce international, l’ouverture des frontières, la libre circulation des personnes et des biens, le développement extraordinaire des transports et de la technologie de l’information, la montée en puissance des télécommunications et des médias à l’échelle planétaire, l’expansion des cultures occidentales et le déclin des États-nations au profit d’institutions internationales en plein essor. Un nouvel ordre mondial est né, et comme la plupart des autres pays, l’Australie a connu de profonds changements depuis la fin des années 1980. Cet article se propose de montrer l’impact direct et indirect de la mondialisation économique, culturelle, technologique et politique sur le peuple aborigène. Bien entendu, il ne s’agit pas de présenter de manière exhaustive les conséquences multiples et complexes de la mondialisation sur les droits, cultures, et sociétés aborigènes, leur développement économique et leur statut politique. Il s’attelle en revanche à mettre en évidence les logiques politiques et socio-culturelles que la mondialisation a favorisées dans les affaires aborigènes, de l’assimilation à l’auto-détermination.

Indigenous Australians have significantly poorer health outcomes than the non-Indigenous population worldwide. The Australian government has increased its investment in Indigenous health through the "Closing the Health Gap" initiative. Deciding where to invest scarce resources so as to maximize health outcomes for Indigenous peoples may require improved priority setting processes. Current government practice involves a mix of implicit and explicit processes to varying degrees at the macro and meso decision making levels. In this article, we argue that explicit priority setting should be emphasized in Indigenous health, as it can ensure that the decision making process is accountable, systematic, and transparent. Following a review of the literature, we outline four key issues that need to be considered for explicit priority setting: developing an Indigenous health "constitution," strengthening the evidence base, selecting mechanisms for priority setting, and establishing appropriate incentives and institutional structure. We then summarize our findings into a checklist that can help a decision makers ensure that explicit priority setting is undertaken in Indigenous health. By addressing these key issues, the benefits of an explicit approach, which include increased efficiency, equity, and use of evidence, can be realized, thereby maximizing Indigenous health outcomes.