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Fatima K, Varela S, Fatima Y, Lindsay D, Gray M, Cairns A. Impact of sleep on educational outcome of Indigenous Australian children: A systematic review. Aust J Rural Health 2024. [PMID: 38923728 DOI: 10.1111/ajr.13156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The association between quality sleep and improved cognition is well reported in literature. However, very few studies have been undertaken to evaluate the impact of poor sleep on educational outcomes in Indigenous Australian children. OBJECTIVES The objective of this review was to explore the association between sleep and educational outcomes of Indigenous children. METHODS For this systematic review, a literature search covering research articles in academic databases and grey literature sources was conducted to retrieve studies published until March 2022. Eight online e-databases (PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, CINAHL, SCOPUS, HealthinfoNet, PsycINFO, Cochrane and Google Scholar) were searched for data extraction and two appraisal tools (NIH and CREATE) were used for quality assessment. Studies that explored any aspect of sleep health in relation to educational/academic outcomes in school going Indigenous Australian children aged 5-18 were included in this study. All review articles and studies that focused on physical/ mental disabilities or parent perceptions of sleep and educational outcomes were excluded. A convergent integrated approach was used to collate and synthesize information. RESULTS Only three studies (two cross-sectional and one longitudinal) met the eligibility criteria out of 574 articles. The sample size ranged from 21-50 of 6 to 13 year old children. A strong relationship was indicated between sleep quantity and educational outcomes, in two of the three studies. One study related the sleep fragmentation/shorter sleep schedules of short sleep class and early risers with poorer reading (B = -30.81 to -37.28, p = 0.006 to 0.023), grammar (B = -39.79 to -47.89, p = 0.012-0.013) and numeracy (B = -37.93 to -50.15, p = 0.003 to 0.022) skills compared with long sleep and normative sleep class whereas another reported no significant relation between sleep and educational outcomes. CONCLUSION The review highlights the need for more research to provide evidence of potentially modifiable factors such as sleep and the impact these may have on academic performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khadija Fatima
- Faculty of Healthcare Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - Sharon Varela
- Murtupuni Centre for Rural and Remote Health, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - Yaqoot Fatima
- Poche Centre for Indigenous Health, The University of Queensland, Toowong, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - Malama Gray
- Centre for Rural and Remote Health, James Cook University, Atherton, Queensland, Australia
| | - Alice Cairns
- Centre for Rural and Remote Health, James Cook University, Atherton, Queensland, Australia
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Ball N, Wyber R, Cornforth F. Descriptive epidemiology must not perpetuate deficit discourse and mask systemic racism. Intern Med J 2024; 54:1044-1045. [PMID: 38881455 DOI: 10.1111/imj.16410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Ball
- National Centre for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Wellbeing Research, Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Rosemary Wyber
- National Centre for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Wellbeing Research, Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
- Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Fiona Cornforth
- National Centre for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Wellbeing Research, Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
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Chartier MJ, Brownell M, Star L, Murdock N, Campbell R, Phillips-Beck W, Horton M, Meade C, Au W, Schultz J, Bowes JM, Cochrane B. The Mental Health of First Nations Children in Manitoba: A Population-Based Retrospective Cohort Study Using Linked Administrative Data: La santé mentale des enfants des Premières Nations au Manitoba : une étude de cohorte rétrospective dans la population, à l'aide de données administratives liées. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHIATRY. REVUE CANADIENNE DE PSYCHIATRIE 2024; 69:404-414. [PMID: 38343025 PMCID: PMC11107444 DOI: 10.1177/07067437241226998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/04/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE First Nations children face a greater risk of experiencing mental disorders than other children from the general population because of family and societal factors, yet there is little research examining their mental health. This study compares diagnosed mental disorders and suicidal behaviours of First Nations children living on-reserve and off-reserve to all other children living in Manitoba. METHOD The research team, which included First Nations and non-First Nations researchers, utilized population-based administrative data that linked de-identified individual-level records from the 2016 First Nations Research File to health and social information for children living in Manitoba. Adjusted rates and rate ratios of mental disorders and suicide behaviours were calculated using a generalized linear modelling approach to compare First Nations children (n = 40,574) and all other children (n = 197,109) and comparing First Nations children living on- and off-reserve. RESULTS Compared with all other children, First Nations children had a higher prevalence of schizophrenia (adjusted rate ratio (aRR): 4.42, 95% confidence interval (CI), 3.36 to 5.82), attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD; aRR: 1.21, 95% CI, 1.09 to 1.33), substance use disorders (aRR: 5.19; 95% CI, 4.25 to 6.33), hospitalizations for suicide attempts (aRR: 6.96; 95% CI, 4.36 to 11.13) and suicide deaths (aRR: 10.63; 95% CI, 7.08 to 15.95). The prevalence of ADHD and mood/anxiety disorders was significantly higher for First Nations children living off-reserve compared with on-reserve; in contrast, hospitalization rates for suicide attempts were twice as high on-reserve than off-reserve. When the comparison cohort was restricted to only other children in low-income areas, a higher prevalence of almost all disorders remained for First Nations children. CONCLUSION Large disparities were found in mental health indicators between First Nations children and other children in Manitoba, demonstrating that considerable work is required to improve the mental well-being of First Nations children. Equitable access to culturally safe services is urgently needed and these services should be self-determined, planned, and implemented by First Nations people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariette J Chartier
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba; Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Marni Brownell
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba; Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Leona Star
- First Nations Health and Social Secretariat of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Nora Murdock
- Manitoba First Nations Education Resource Centre, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Rhonda Campbell
- College of Nursing, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | | | - Mabel Horton
- Advisory Working Group, First Nations Health and Social Secretariat of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Chelsey Meade
- Manitoba First Nations Education Resource Centre, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Wendy Au
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba; Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Jennifer Schultz
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba; Winnipeg, Canada
| | - John-Michael Bowes
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba; Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Brooke Cochrane
- College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba. Winnipeg, Canada
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Arrington LA, Kramer B, Ogunwole SM, Harris TL, Dankwa L, Knight S, Creanga AA, Bower KM. Interrupting false narratives: applying a racial equity lens to healthcare quality data. BMJ Qual Saf 2024; 33:340-344. [PMID: 38216312 DOI: 10.1136/bmjqs-2023-016612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Briana Kramer
- Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | | | - Lois Dankwa
- Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Andreea A Creanga
- Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Kelly M Bower
- Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Heris C, Caudell RZ, Barrett EM, Brinckley MM, Cohen R, Kennedy M, Whop LJ, Calma T, Maddox R. The social determinants of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults who do not smoke in regional Australia. Aust J Rural Health 2024; 32:275-285. [PMID: 38366719 DOI: 10.1111/ajr.13084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Commercial tobacco use was systematically embedded as a valuable commodity through colonisation that continues to be exploited for profit by the Tobacco Industry. There have been significant declines in current smoking prevalence among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples 18 years and over, from 55% in 1994 to 43% in 2018-2019. This paper seeks to better understand smoke-free behaviours, and to systematically quantify associations between a range of SDOH and non-smoking/never-smoking among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults (≥18) living in regional Australia. OBJECTIVE To explore the social determinants of health (SDOH) related to non- and never-smoking among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in regional Australia. DESIGN Cross-sectional analysis of the NATSIHS, weighted to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adult population living in regional Australia, was conducted. Participants were characterised as people who were current smokers, never-smokers and non-smokers (ex- and never-smokers). The social determinants of health exposures related to socioeconomic position, well-being and access to healthcare. SETTING Regional Australia is distinct from urban and remote areas, based on the ASGS Remoteness Structure (ABS) 2018-2019. PARTICIPANTS Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults (≥18 years) who were selected, consented and asked questions about smoking in the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Survey (NATSIHS 2018/19). RESULTS High income was associated with non-smoking (Prevalence Ratio [PR] = 2.07; 95% CI: 1.66-2.57) and never-smoking (PR = 2.02; 1.46-2.79), as was completing year 10 (non-smoking PR = 1.34; 1.12-1.61 and never-smoking PR = 1.56; 1.20-2.03). Better food security was associated with a higher prevalence of never-smoking (PR = 2.42; 1.48-3.98). Lower psychological distress scores were associated with non-smoking (PR = 1.30; 1.10-1.53) and never-smoking (PR = 1.56; 1.21-2.01). Never-smoking was more frequent in participants reporting no experiences of unfair treatment (PR = 1.59; 1.22-2.06). Having a usual healthcare provider was associated with non-smoking (PR = 1.38; 1.02-1.86). Positive exposure to the SDOH were associated with non- and never-smoking among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults in regional Australia. Structural and systemic changes to address the SDOH, including discrimination and racism, are expected to accelerate non-smoking behaviours and improve health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Heris
- National Centre for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Wellbeing Research, National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University College of Health and Medicine, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Reuben Z Caudell
- Australian National University College of Health and Medicine, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Eden M Barrett
- National Centre for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Wellbeing Research, National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University College of Health and Medicine, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
- The George Institute for Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Makayla-May Brinckley
- National Centre for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Wellbeing Research, National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University College of Health and Medicine, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
- School of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rubijayne Cohen
- National Centre for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Wellbeing Research, National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University College of Health and Medicine, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Michelle Kennedy
- School of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Lisa J Whop
- National Centre for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Wellbeing Research, National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University College of Health and Medicine, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Tom Calma
- Consultant to the Commonwealth Department of Health, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Raglan Maddox
- National Centre for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Wellbeing Research, National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University College of Health and Medicine, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
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Hossain S, Moeller H, Sharpe P, Campbell M, Kimlin R, Porykali B, Shannon B, Gray J, Afzali H, Harrison JE, Ivers RQ, Ryder C. Characterising the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patient journey after a serious road traffic injury and barriers to access to compensation: a protocol. Inj Prev 2024; 30:75-80. [PMID: 37923356 DOI: 10.1136/ip-2023-044997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Road safety has been a long-enduring policy concern in Australia, with significant financial burden of road trauma and evident socioeconomic disparities. Transport injuries disproportionately impact individuals in remote areas, those in lower socioeconomic situations, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations. There is a lack of insight into transport injuries in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, absence of Indigenous perspective in published research and limited utilisation of linked data assets to address the inequity. Aim 1 is to determine the breadth, cost and causal factors of serious injury from road traffic crashes in South Australia (SA) and New South Wales (NSW) with a focus on injury prevention. Aim 2 is to identify enablers and barriers to compensation schemes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients in SA and NSW. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This study will be guided by an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Governance Group, applying Knowledge Interface Methodology and Indigenous research principles to ensure Indigenous Data Sovereignty and incorporation of informed perspectives. A mixed-method approach will be undertaken to explore study aims including using big data assets and mapping patient journey. CONCLUSION The results of this study will provide valuable insights for the development of focused injury prevention strategies and policies tailored to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. By addressing the specific needs and challenges faced by these communities, the study aims to enhance road safety outcomes and promote equitable access to healthcare and compensation for affected individuals and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadia Hossain
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Translational Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Holger Moeller
- School of Population Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- The George Institute for Global Health, Newtown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Patrick Sharpe
- Far West Community Partnerships, Far West Region, South Australia, Australia
| | - Marnie Campbell
- Women's and Children's Health Network, North Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Rebecca Kimlin
- Barossa Hills Fleurieu Local Health Network, Mount Barker, South Australia, Australia
| | - Bobby Porykali
- The George Institute for Global Health, Newtown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Brett Shannon
- School of Public Health, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Jodi Gray
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Hossein Afzali
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - James E Harrison
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Rebecca Q Ivers
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- School of Population Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Courtney Ryder
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- School of Population Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Constantinides F, Orr N, Nash K, Evans JR, McMahon CM, Gunasekera H, Harkus S, Clague L, Cross C, Halvorsen L, Lumby N, Coates H, Macniven R. Examining relationships between parent-reported factors and recurring ear symptoms among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. Health Promot J Austr 2024; 35:225-234. [PMID: 36961054 DOI: 10.1002/hpja.719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2023] Open
Abstract
ISSUE ADDRESSED Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander child ear health is complex and multiple. We examined relationships between parent-reported sociodemographic, child health, health service access factors and ear symptoms among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children aged 3 to 7 years. METHODS The Longitudinal Study of Indigenous Children is a large child cohort study with annual parent-reported data collection. Generalised linear mixed model analyses examined Wave 1 (1309 children 0-5 years; 2008) predictors of being free of parent-reported ear symptoms in both Waves 2 and 3. RESULTS A total of 1030 (78.7%) had no reported ear symptoms in either Wave 2 or 3. In the fully adjusted model, children who had been hospitalised in the past year (aOR = 2.16; 95% CI 1.19-3.93) and those with no ear symptoms (aOR = 2.94; 95% CI, 1.59-5.46) at Wave 1 had higher odds of no ear symptoms in both the subsequent waves. There were also relationships between parent main source of income-government pension or allowance as well as parents who reported no history of their own ear symptoms and higher odds of no ear symptoms in Waves 2 and 3 after partial adjustment for sociodemographic factors. CONCLUSION These findings suggest relationships between different sociodemographic and health factors and parent-reported ear symptoms among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children that warrant further investigation. So what? Children with parent-reported ear symptoms during the early years need holistic support to prevent future ear symptoms that impact health, social and educational life trajectories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fina Constantinides
- Department of Linguistics, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University Hearing, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Neil Orr
- Department of Linguistics, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University Hearing, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kai Nash
- Department of Linguistics, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University Hearing, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - John Robert Evans
- Moondani Toombadool Centre, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Catherine M McMahon
- Department of Linguistics, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University Hearing, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Hasantha Gunasekera
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Children's Hospital Westmead Clinical School, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Samantha Harkus
- National Acoustic Laboratories, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Liesa Clague
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Notre Dame, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Cara Cross
- Department of Linguistics, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University Hearing, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Luke Halvorsen
- Department of Linguistics, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University Hearing, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Noeleen Lumby
- Department of Linguistics, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University Hearing, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Harvey Coates
- School of Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Rona Macniven
- Department of Linguistics, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University Hearing, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Population Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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McCormack H, Wand H, Bourne C, Ward J, Bradley C, Mak D, Guy R. Integrating testing for sexually transmissible infections into annual health assessments for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people: a cross-sectional analysis. Sex Health 2023; 20:488-496. [PMID: 37690512 DOI: 10.1071/sh23107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the context of an expanding syphilis epidemic, we assessed the integration of sexually transmissible infection (STI) testing within annual health assessments for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people aged 16-29years in Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services between 2018 and 2020. METHODS Using routinely collected electronic medical record data from a national sentinel surveillance system (ATLAS), we performed a cross-sectional analysis to calculate the proportion of assessments that integrated any or all of the tests for chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, and HIV. We used logistic regression to identify correlates of integration of any STI test. RESULTS Of the 13 892 assessments, 23.8% (95% CI 23.1, 24.6) integrated a test for any STI and 11.5% (95% CI 10.9, 12.0) included all four STIs. Of assessments that included a chlamydia/gonorrhoea test, 66.9% concurrently included a syphilis test. Integration of any STI test was associated with patients aged 20-24years (OR 1.2, 95% CI 1.1-1.4) and 25-29years (OR 1.1, 95% CI 1.0-1.2) compared to 16-19years and patients residing in very remote (OR 4.2, 95% CI 3.7-4.8), remote (OR 2.4, 95% CI 2.1-2.8), and regional areas (OR 2.5, 95% CI 2.2-2.8) compared to metropolitan areas. There was no association with patient sex. CONCLUSIONS Integration of STI testing into annual health assessments for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people was higher in remote areas where disease burden is greatest. Integration is similar in men and women, which contrasts with most studies that have found higher testing in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather McCormack
- Kirby Institute, UNSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia; and NSW STI Programs Unit, Centre for Population Health, NSW Ministry of Health, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Handan Wand
- Kirby Institute, UNSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Christopher Bourne
- Kirby Institute, UNSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia; and NSW STI Programs Unit, Centre for Population Health, NSW Ministry of Health, Sydney, NSW, Australia; and Sydney Sexual Health Centre, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - James Ward
- UQ Poche Centre for Indigenous Health, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
| | - Clare Bradley
- UQ Poche Centre for Indigenous Health, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
| | - Donna Mak
- Department of Health, East Perth, WA, Australia; and School of Medicine, University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, WA, Australia
| | - Rebecca Guy
- Kirby Institute, UNSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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McCormack H, Wand H, Newman CE, Bourne C, Kennedy C, Guy R. Exploring Whether the Electronic Optimization of Routine Health Assessments Can Increase Testing for Sexually Transmitted Infections and Provider Acceptability at an Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service: Mixed Methods Evaluation. JMIR Med Inform 2023; 11:e51387. [PMID: 38032729 PMCID: PMC10722379 DOI: 10.2196/51387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the context of a syphilis outbreak in neighboring states, a multifaceted systems change to increase testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among young Aboriginal people aged 15 to 29 years was implemented at an Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service (ACCHS) in New South Wales, Australia. The components included electronic medical record prompts and automated pathology test sets to increase STI testing in annual routine health assessments, the credentialing of nurses and Aboriginal health practitioners to conduct STI tests independently, pathology request forms presigned by a physician, and improved data reporting. OBJECTIVE We aimed to determine whether the systems change increased the integration of STI testing into routine health assessments by clinicians between April 2019 and March 2020, the inclusion of syphilis tests in STI testing, and STI testing uptake overall. We also explored the understandings of factors contributing to the acceptability and normalization of the systems change among staff. METHODS We used a mixed methods design to evaluate the effectiveness and acceptability of the systems change implemented in 2019. We calculated the annual proportion of health assessments that included tests for chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis, as well as an internal control (blood glucose level). We conducted an interrupted time series analysis of quarterly proportions 24 months before and 12 months after the systems change and in-depth semistructured interviews with ACCHS staff using normalization process theory. RESULTS Among 2461 patients, the annual proportion of health assessments that included any STI test increased from 16% (38/237) in the first year of the study period to 42.9% (94/219) after the implementation of the systems change. There was an immediate and large increase when the systems change occurred (coefficient=0.22; P=.003) with no decline for 12 months thereafter. The increase was greater for male individuals, with no change for the internal control. Qualitative data indicated that nurse- and Aboriginal health practitioner-led testing and presigned pathology forms proved more difficult to normalize than electronic prompts and shortcuts. The interviews identified that staff understood the modifications to have encouraged cultural change around the role of sexual health care in routine practice. CONCLUSIONS This study provides evidence for the first time that optimizing health assessments electronically is an effective and acceptable strategy to increase and sustain clinician integration and the completeness of STI testing among young Aboriginal people attending an ACCHS. Future strategies should focus on increasing the uptake of health assessments and promote whole-of-service engagement and accountability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather McCormack
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Kensington, Australia
- Centre for Population Health, New South Wales Ministry of Health, Sydney, Australia
| | - Handan Wand
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Kensington, Australia
| | - Christy E Newman
- Centre for Social Research in Health, University of New South Wales, Kensington, Australia
| | - Christopher Bourne
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Kensington, Australia
- Centre for Population Health, New South Wales Ministry of Health, Sydney, Australia
- Sydney Sexual Health Centre, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Rebecca Guy
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Kensington, Australia
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Martin T, McIntyre S, Waight E, Baynam G, Watson L, Langdon K, Woolfenden S, Smithers‐Sheedy H, Sherwood J. Prevalence and trends for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children living with cerebral palsy: A birds-eye view. Dev Med Child Neurol 2023; 65:1475-1485. [PMID: 37147854 PMCID: PMC10952932 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.15617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
AIM To provide a birds-eye view of the trends of cerebral palsy (CP) for Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young adults. METHOD Data were obtained for this population-based observational study from the Australian Cerebral Palsy Register (ACPR), birth years 1995 to 2014. The Indigenous status of children was classified by maternal Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander or non-Indigenous status. Descriptive statistics were calculated for socio-demographic and clinical characteristics. Prenatal/perinatal and post-neonatal birth prevalence was calculated per 1000 live births and per 10 000 live births respectively, and Poisson regression used to assess trends. RESULTS Data from the ACPR were available for 514 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals with CP. Most children could walk independently (56%) and lived in urban or regional areas (72%). One in five children lived in socioeconomically disadvantaged remote/very remote areas. The birth prevalence of prenatal/perinatal CP declined after the mid-2000s from a high of 4.8 (95% confidence interval 3.2-7.0) to 1.9 per 1000 live births (95% confidence interval 1.1-3.2) (2013-2014), with marked declines observed for term births and teenage mothers. INTERPRETATION The birth prevalence of CP in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in Australia declined between the mid-2000s and 2013 to 2014. This birds-eye view provides key stakeholders with new knowledge to advocate for sustainable funding for accessible, culturally safe, antenatal and CP services. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS Birth prevalence of cerebral palsy (CP) is beginning to decline for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. Recent CP birth prevalence for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders is 1.9 per 1000 live births. Most children with CP live in more populated areas rather than remote or very remote areas. One in five Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children with CP live in socioeconomically disadvantaged remote areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanya Martin
- School of Nursing and MidwiferyThe University of SydneyCamperdownNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Sarah McIntyre
- Cerebral Palsy Alliance/Research Institute, Specialty of Child & Adolescent HealthThe University of SydneyCamperdownNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Emma Waight
- Cerebral Palsy Alliance/Research Institute, Specialty of Child & Adolescent HealthThe University of SydneyCamperdownNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Gareth Baynam
- Department of Health, Western Australian Register of Developmental AnomaliesGovernment of Western AustraliaPerthWestern AustraliaAustralia
| | - Linda Watson
- Department of Health, Western Australian Register of Developmental AnomaliesGovernment of Western AustraliaPerthWestern AustraliaAustralia
| | | | - Susan Woolfenden
- Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Clinical MedicineUNSW SydneySydneyNew South WalesAustralia
- Sydney Institute of Women, Children and their FamiliesSydney Local Health DistrictSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Hayley Smithers‐Sheedy
- Cerebral Palsy Alliance/Research Institute, Specialty of Child & Adolescent HealthThe University of SydneyCamperdownNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Juanita Sherwood
- Jumbunna Institute for Indigenous Education and ResearchUniversity of Technology SydneySydneyNew South WalesAustralia
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11
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Cummins R, Preston R, Topp SM, Taylor J, Larkins S, Callander E, Bell L, Arley B, Garvey G. A qualitative exploration of the non-financial costs of cancer care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians. Aust N Z J Public Health 2023; 47:100085. [PMID: 37688836 DOI: 10.1016/j.anzjph.2023.100085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Knowledge is growing about cancer care and financial costs for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. However, much remains unknown about the true costs of cancer care, encompassing financial, emotional, and spiritual aspects. We aimed to explore and explain how non-financial costs affect the health-seeking behaviours of these clients. METHODS Following Indigenous research protocols, this research was led by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander researchers and guided by Indigenous Hospital Liaison Officers. In-depth interviews and focus groups were conducted with 29 participants (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cancer clients, their carers, and cancer-care professionals) at two Queensland public hospitals. RESULTS Four interwoven themes encompass non-financial costs of healthcare: leaving home and family; loss of control during cancer treatment; health of the spirit; social costs. The Aboriginal relational concept of 'being held' is useful in considering client, family, and carer as central to care with the Indigenous Hospital Liaison Officer two-way interpreting between the care and client team. IMPLICATIONS FOR PUBLIC HEALTH Framing the reasons that clients and carers have difficulty in engaging in treatment as 'costs' enables a focus on how the health system itself is implicated in the disengagement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients from treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Cummins
- Djiru/Jirrabal/Bwgcolman, College of Medicine and Dentistry, Bebegu Yumba, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
| | - Robyn Preston
- Public Health, College of Science and Sustainability, School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, CQUniversity, Townsville, Australia; College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia.
| | - Stephanie M Topp
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
| | - Judy Taylor
- College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
| | - Sarah Larkins
- College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
| | - Emily Callander
- Monash University, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia; Health Services Management, University of Technology Sydney, School of Public Health, Sydney, Australia
| | - Lorraine Bell
- Menzies School of Health Research, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia; Australian e-Health Research Centre CSIRO, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Brian Arley
- Daru, Tudugal, Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Australia
| | - Gail Garvey
- Menzies School of Health Research, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia; School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Darwin, Australia
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12
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McKay CD, Gubhaju L, Gibberd AJ, McNamara BJ, Macniven R, Joshy G, Roseby R, Williams R, Yashadhana A, Fields T, Porykali B, Azzopardi P, Banks E, Eades SJ. Health behaviours associated with healthy body composition among Aboriginal adolescents in Australia in the 'Next Generation: Youth Well-being study'. Prev Med 2023; 175:107715. [PMID: 37775084 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2023.107715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
This study described the distribution of healthy body composition among Aboriginal adolescents in Australia aged 10-24 years and examined associations with health behaviours and self-rated health. Data were cross-sectional from the 'Next Generation: Youth Well-being study' baseline (N = 1294). We used robust Poisson regression to quantify associations of self-reported health behaviours (physical activity, screen time, sleep, consumption of vegetables, fruit, soft drinks and fast food, and tobacco smoking and alcohol) and self-rated health to healthy body mass index (BMI) and waist/height ratio (WHtR). Overall, 48% of participants had healthy BMI and 64% healthy WHtR, with healthy body composition more common among younger adolescents. Higher physical activity was associated with healthy body composition (5-7 days last week vs none; adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR) healthy BMI 1.31 [95% CI 1.05-1.64], and healthy WHtR 1.30 [1.10-1.54]), as was recommended sleep duration (vs not; aPR healthy BMI 1.56 [1.19-2.05], and healthy WHtR 1.37 [1.13-1.67]). There was a trend for higher proportion of healthy body composition with more frequent fast food consumption. Healthy body composition was also associated with higher self-rated health ('very good/excellent' vs 'poor/fair'; aPR healthy BMI 1.87 [1.45-2.42], and healthy WHtR 1.71 [1.40-2.10]). Culturally appropriate community health interventions with a focus on physical activity and sleep may hold promise for improving body composition among Aboriginal adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher D McKay
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Lina Gubhaju
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Alison J Gibberd
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Bridgette J McNamara
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Rona Macniven
- School of Population Health, UNSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Grace Joshy
- Centre for Public Health Data and Policy, National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, College of Health & Medicine, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Robert Roseby
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Monash Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Robyn Williams
- Curtin Medical School, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Aryati Yashadhana
- School of Population Health, UNSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Centre for Primary Health Care & Equity, UNSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Ted Fields
- School of Population Health, UNSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Centre for Primary Health Care & Equity, UNSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Bobby Porykali
- Guunu-maana (Heal) Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Program, The George Institute for Global Heath, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Peter Azzopardi
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Emily Banks
- Centre for Public Health Data and Policy, National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, College of Health & Medicine, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Sandra J Eades
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Day A, Malvaso C. Researching Adverse Childhood Experiences in the Youth Justice System: Reflections on Methodology From a Members of a Non-Indigenous Research Team. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OFFENDER THERAPY AND COMPARATIVE CRIMINOLOGY 2023; 67:707-719. [PMID: 34784806 DOI: 10.1177/0306624x211058951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the impacts of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) has rapidly emerged as an important area of research that has implications for those who work in youth justice settings. This paper identifies a series of considerations facing those who work in jurisdictions where Indigenous or First Nations peoples have much higher levels of contact with both child protection and criminal justice systems than other population groups. It presents some reflections from members of a non-Indigenous research team about their efforts to engage with cultural perspectives on ACEs research in a way that facilitates further discussion within the research community about the methodological decisions that are made when investigating issues that are of importance to members of minority culture communities.
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14
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Promoting Temporal Investigations of Development in Context: a Systematic Review of Longitudinal Research Linking Childhood Circumstances and Learning-related Outcomes. EDUCATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY REVIEW 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s10648-023-09734-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
AbstractChildren’s learning and cognitive development have a distinct receptivity to the circumstances of childhood. However, not all children have equal opportunities and learning inequities continue to be influenced by the social and economic circumstances of childhood. Examining factors within the environments that children are growing up in, and the associations of these factors with learning, can help to identify leverage points for change, enabling more children to be supported to reach their potential. Specifically, turning attention to the timing and duration of exposure to specific social and economic factors across childhood can provide essential details to determine who is most susceptible to contextual effects and at what ages. This paper presents a systematic review of 75 longitudinal studies of families and children carried out between 2000 and 2021. These studies tracked social and economic circumstances between pregnancy and early adolescence in relation to educational and cognitive outcomes across the lifespan. The results of the included studies were examined and grouped into themes using reflexive thematic analysis. The findings largely suggest that the degree to which educational and cognitive outcomes are affected by specific social and economic circumstances depends on the duration, timing, and mobility across childhood. In particular, findings relating to the developmental timing of exposure, as well as persistent exposure, revealed distinct evidence of the effects of temporality. These findings provide detail into how much and in what instances temporality should be considered—results which can be used to inform avenues for reducing learning disparities.
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15
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Macniven R, McKay CD, Graham S, Gubhaju L, Williams R, Williamson A, Joshy G, Evans JR, Roseby R, Porykali B, Yashadhana A, Ivers R, Eades S. Social and Behavioural Correlates of High Physical Activity Levels among Aboriginal Adolescent Participants of the Next Generation: Youth Wellbeing Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:3738. [PMID: 36834433 PMCID: PMC9962528 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20043738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Physical activity typically decreases during teenage years and has been identified as a health priority by Aboriginal adolescents. We examined associations between physical activity levels and sociodemographic, movement and health variables in the Aboriginal led 'Next Generation: Youth Well-being (NextGen) Study' of Aboriginal people aged 10-24 years from Central Australia, Western Australia and New South Wales. Baseline survey data collected by Aboriginal researchers and Aboriginal youth peer recruiters from 2018 to 2020 examined demographics and health-related behaviours. Logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios (OR) for engaging in high levels of physical activity in the past week (3-7 days; 0-2 days (ref), or 'don't remember') associated with demographic and behavioural factors. Of 1170 adolescents, 524 (41.9%) had high levels of physical activity; 455 (36.4%) had low levels; 191 (15.3%) did not remember. Factors independently associated with higher odds of physical activity 3-7 days/week were low weekday recreational screen time [55.3% vs. 44.0%, OR 1.79 (1.16-2.76)], having non-smoking friends [50.4% vs. 25.0%, OR 2.27 (1.03-5.00)] and having fewer friends that drink alcohol [48.1% vs. 35.2%, OR 2.08 (1.05-4.14)]. Lower odds of high physical activity were independently associated with being female [40.2% vs. 50.9%, OR 0.57 (0.40-0.80)] and some findings differed by sex. The NextGen study provides evidence to inform the co-design and implementation of strategies to increase Aboriginal adolescent physical activity such as focusing on peer influences and co-occurring behaviours such as screen time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rona Macniven
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Medicine & Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Christopher D. McKay
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Simon Graham
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Lina Gubhaju
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Robyn Williams
- Curtin Medical School, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6102, Australia
| | - Anna Williamson
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Medicine & Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Grace Joshy
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, College of Health & Medicine, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - John Robert Evans
- Moondani Toombadool Centre, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC 3122, Australia
| | - Robert Roseby
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Monash Children’s Hospital, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Bobby Porykali
- Guuna-Maana (Heal) Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Program, The George Institute for Global Heath, Sydney, NSW 2042, Australia
| | - Aryati Yashadhana
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Medicine & Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
- Centre for Primary Health Care & Equity, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Rebecca Ivers
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Medicine & Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Sandra Eades
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
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16
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Mendlowitz AB, Bremner KE, Feld JJ, Jones L, Hill E, Antone E, Liberty L, Boucher R, Krahn MD. Lessons from First Nations partnerships in hepatitis C research and the co-creation of knowledge. CANADIAN LIVER JOURNAL 2023; 6:46-55. [PMID: 36908573 PMCID: PMC9997512 DOI: 10.3138/canlivj-2022-0011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 07/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Administrative health data provide a rich and powerful tool for health services research. Partnership between researchers and the Ontario First Nations HIV/AIDS Education Circle (OFNHAEC) allowed for comprehensive analyses of the health and economic impacts of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in First Nations populations across Ontario, using administrative data. Examples of meaningful involvement of First Nations partners in research using secondary data sources demonstrate how community-based participatory research principles can be adapted to empower First Nations stakeholders and decision-makers. The aim of this review is to summarize and reflect on lessons learned in producing meaningful and actionable First Nations HCV research using health administrative data, from the perspective of health services researchers who collaborated for the first time with First Nations partners. METHODS: We discuss how our relationship with OFNHAEC formed and how engagement contextualized findings and provided opportunities for fostering trust and mutual capacity building. Methods included adherence to data governance principles, agreements outlining ethical conduct, and establishing commitment between partners. RESULTS: Engagement with OFNHAEC enhanced cultural understandings in study conception, design, and analysis, and enabled meaningful lessons for both parties through contextualizing findings together. Partnership ensured attention to factors, such as strength-based approaches and limitations of administrative data in their representation of First Nations peoples, that are not considered in standard HCV health services research using administrative health data. CONCLUSIONS: Collaboration throughout the HCV research provided first-hand experience of the relevance, representation, and importance of incorporating First Nations perspectives in health services research using administrative data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew B Mendlowitz
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease/Viral Hepatitis Care Network (VIRCAN), Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Toronto Health Economics and Technology Assessment (THETA) Collaborative, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Karen E Bremner
- Toronto Health Economics and Technology Assessment (THETA) Collaborative, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jordan J Feld
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease/Viral Hepatitis Care Network (VIRCAN), Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lyndia Jones
- Ontario First Nations HIV/AIDS Education Circle (OFNHAEC), London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Evelynne Hill
- Ontario First Nations HIV/AIDS Education Circle (OFNHAEC), London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Elly Antone
- Ontario First Nations HIV/AIDS Education Circle (OFNHAEC), London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Laura Liberty
- Ontario First Nations HIV/AIDS Education Circle (OFNHAEC), London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rene Boucher
- Ontario First Nations HIV/AIDS Education Circle (OFNHAEC), London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Murray D Krahn
- Toronto Health Economics and Technology Assessment (THETA) Collaborative, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Deceased 01 07 22
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17
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Parent Perspectives of Ear Health and the Relationship with Children's Speech and Language in the Longitudinal Study of Indigenous Children. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:children10010165. [PMID: 36670715 PMCID: PMC9857726 DOI: 10.3390/children10010165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Health and well-being are holistic concepts that are perceived to be inseparable for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We examined relationships between parent-reported ear symptoms for 787 Indigenous children at two time points (age 2-3 years, age 4-5 years) and two parent-reported speech and language outcomes one year later (age 5-6 years). Most parents (80.2%) reported no concern about their child's expressive language and (93.8%) receptive language. Binary logistic regression models examined ear health as a predictor of children's expressive and receptive speech and language adjusting for sociodemographic and health covariates. For children without parent-reported ear symptoms, there were lower odds of parental concern about expressive speech and language (aOR = 0.45; 95% CI 0.21-0.99) and receptive language (aOR = 0.24; 95% CI 0.09-0.62). Parents were less likely to have concerns about the child's expressive speech and language if their child was female, lived in urban or regional areas, had excellent or very good global health, or had no disability when aged 2-5 years. Since parent-reported ear health and speech and language concerns were related, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children could benefit from culturally safe, strength-based, and family-centered integrated speech, language, and ear health services.
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18
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Butler D, Clifford-Motopi A, Mathew S, Nelson C, Brown R, Gardner K, Turner L, Coombe L, Roe Y, Gao Y, Ward J. Study protocol: primary healthcare transformation through patient-centred medical homes-improving access, relational care and outcomes in an urban Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population, a mixed methods prospective cohort study. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e061037. [PMID: 36175091 PMCID: PMC9528615 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-061037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION For over 40 years, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community-Controlled Health Services (ACCHS) in Australia have led strategic responses to address the specific needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations. Globally, there has been rapid growth in urban Indigenous populations requiring an adaptive primary healthcare response. Patient-centred medical homes (PCMH) are an evidenced-based model of primary healthcare suited to this challenge, underpinned by principles aligned with the ACCHS sector-relational care responsive to patient identified healthcare priorities. Evidence is lacking on the implementation and effectiveness of the PCMH model of care governed by, and delivered for, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations in large urban settings. METHOD AND ANALYSIS Our multiphased mixed-methods prospective cohort study will compare standard care provided by a network of ACCHS to an adapted PCMH model of care. Phase 1 using qualitative interviews with staff and patients and quantitative analysis of routine primary care health record data will examine the implementation, feasibility and acceptability of the PCMH. Phase 2 using linked survey, primary care and hospitalisation data will examine the impact of our adapted PCMH on access to care, relational and quality of care, health and wellbeing outcomes and economic costs. Phase 3 will synthesise evidence on mechanisms for change and discuss their implications for sustainability and transferability of PCMHs to the broader primary healthcare system ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: This study has received approval from the University of Queensland Human Research Ethics Committee (2021/HE00529). This research represents an Aboriginal led and governed partnership in response to identified community priorities. The findings will contribute new knowledge on how key mechanisms underpinning the success and implementation of the model can be introduced into policy and practice. Study findings will be disseminated to service providers, researchers, policymakers and, most importantly, the communities themselves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Butler
- Institute for Urban Indigenous Health Ltd, Windsor, Queensland, Australia
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | | | - Saira Mathew
- Institute for Urban Indigenous Health Ltd, Windsor, Queensland, Australia
| | - Carmel Nelson
- Institute for Urban Indigenous Health Ltd, Windsor, Queensland, Australia
- UQ Poche Centre for Indigenous Health, Saint Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Renee Brown
- Institute for Urban Indigenous Health Ltd, Windsor, Queensland, Australia
- UQ Poche Centre for Indigenous Health, Saint Lucia, Queensland, Australia
- Nununccal
| | - Karen Gardner
- Business School, University of New South Wales Canberra at ADFA, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Lyle Turner
- Institute for Urban Indigenous Health Ltd, Windsor, Queensland, Australia
- UQ Poche Centre for Indigenous Health, Saint Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Leanne Coombe
- UQ Poche Centre for Indigenous Health, Saint Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Yvette Roe
- Charles Darwin University, Casuarina, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
- Njikena Jawuru
| | - Yu Gao
- Charles Darwin University, Casuarina, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - James Ward
- UQ Poche Centre for Indigenous Health, Saint Lucia, Queensland, Australia
- Pitjantjatjara and Nukunu
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Protective Factors against Self-Harm and Suicidality among Australian Indigenous Adolescents: A Strengths-Based Analysis of the Longitudinal Study of Indigenous Children. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19159131. [PMID: 35897497 PMCID: PMC9330702 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19159131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
Background: Understanding and encouraging social and emotional well-being (SEWB) among Indigenous adolescents is vital in countering the impacts of colonisation and intergenerational trauma. As self-harm and suicidality are considered markers of poor SEWB among Indigenous communities, we aimed to identify the individual-level and community-level factors protecting Indigenous adolescents from self-harm and suicidality. Methods: Data came from Footprints in Time—The Longitudinal Study of Indigenous Children (waves 10 and 11), conducted among Indigenous families across Australia. A strengths-based analysis fitted multilevel logistic regression to explore associations with factors proposed as protective against self-reported self-harm and suicidality among Indigenous adolescents. Results: Our study cohort included 365 adolescents with complete data for the variables of interest. Adolescents had a mean (SD) age of 14.04 (0.45) years and a sex ratio of almost 1:1, and most were attending school (96.2%). Previous self-harm was reported by 8.2% (n = 30); previous suicidality was reported by 4.1% (n = 15). Individual-level factors protecting against self-harm and suicidality were being male, living in a cohesive family, and having low total Strengths and Difficulty Questionnaire scores (p < 0.05 for all). Residing in major cities compared with regional/remote areas was protective against self-harm (OR 5.94, 95% CI 1.31−26.81). Strong cultural identity was not found to be a protective factor against self-harm and/or suicidality in the sample. Conclusions: This study identified key individual- and community-level factors that can protect Australian Indigenous adolescents against self-harm and suicidality, particularly family cohesion. Identifying strengths for this at-risk population can inform prevention strategies, particularly for rural living adolescents with high distress.
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Browne J, Becker D, Orellana L, Ryan J, Walker T, Whelan J, Alston L, Egan M, Johnson B, Rossignoli A, Crooks N, Brown AD, Bolton KA, Fraser P, Le H, Bell C, Hayward J, Sanigorski A, Backholer K, Allender S, Strugnell C. Healthy weight, health behaviours and quality of life among Aboriginal children living in regional Victoria. Aust N Z J Public Health 2022; 46:595-603. [DOI: 10.1111/1753-6405.13271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Browne
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
| | - Denise Becker
- Biostatistics Unit, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
| | - Liliana Orellana
- Biostatistics Unit, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
| | - Joleen Ryan
- School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
| | - Troy Walker
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
| | - Jill Whelan
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
| | - Laura Alston
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
- Deakin Rural Health, Faculty of Health Deakin University Warrnambool Victoria
| | - Mikaela Egan
- Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation Melbourne Victoria
| | - Brittney Johnson
- Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation Melbourne Victoria
| | - Amy Rossignoli
- Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation Melbourne Victoria
| | - Nicholas Crooks
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
| | - Andrew D. Brown
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
| | - Kristy A. Bolton
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, School of Exercise and Nutrition Science, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
| | - Penny Fraser
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
| | - Ha Le
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
- Deakin Health Economics, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
| | - Colin Bell
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
| | - Josh Hayward
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
| | - Andrew Sanigorski
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
| | - Kathryn Backholer
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
| | - Steven Allender
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
- Deakin Rural Health, Faculty of Health Deakin University Warrnambool Victoria
| | - Claudia Strugnell
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
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21
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McCormack H, Guy R, Bourne C, Newman CE. Integrating testing for sexually transmissible infections into routine primary care for Aboriginal young people: a strengths-based qualitative analysis. Aust N Z J Public Health 2022; 46:370-376. [PMID: 35238454 DOI: 10.1111/1753-6405.13208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This paper examines factors that enabled successful integration of testing for sexually transmissible infections into routine care in Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services. METHODS This paper reports analysis of qualitative interview data recorded with 19 purposively sampled key informants in New South Wales, Australia, representing six Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services and five government health bodies supporting those services. The analysis explicitly adopted a strengths-based approach. RESULTS Participants reported a strong belief that routine screening overcomes shame and increases engagement with sexual health screening. Incorporating sexual health screening into general medical consultations increases the capture of asymptomatic cases. The Medicare Benefits Schedule 715 Adult Health Check was highlighted as an ideal lever for effective integration into routine care. CONCLUSION Integration of testing for sexually transmissible infections into routine care is widely perceived as best practice by senior stakeholders in Aboriginal healthcare in NSW. Findings support continued work to optimise the MBS 715 as a lever to increase testing. IMPLICATIONS FOR PUBLIC HEALTH Identifying accessible strategies to increase testing for sexually transmissible infections in Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services can reduce disparities in notifications affecting Aboriginal young people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather McCormack
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, New South Wales
- NSW STI Programs Unit, Centre for Population Health, New South Wales Health
| | - Rebecca Guy
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, New South Wales
| | - Christopher Bourne
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, New South Wales
- NSW STI Programs Unit, Centre for Population Health, New South Wales Health
- Sydney Sexual Health Centre, New South Wales
| | - Christy E Newman
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, New South Wales
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22
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Bullied Because of Their Teeth: Evidence from a Longitudinal Study on the Impact of Oral Health on Bullying Victimization among Australian Indigenous Children. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19094995. [PMID: 35564388 PMCID: PMC9101169 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19094995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Making life better for Indigenous peoples is a global priority. Although bullying and oral health have always been a topic of concern, there is limited information regarding the impact of this problem on the general population, with no evidence in this regard among the Australian Indigenous population. Thus, we aimed to quantify the relationship between bullying victimization and oral health problems by remoteness among 766 Australian Indigenous children aged between 10−15-years using data from the LSIC study. Bivariate and multilevel mixed-effect logistic regression analyses were employed. Findings indicated children self-reported bullying more than parents reported their children were being bullied (44% vs. 33.6%), with a higher percentage from rural/remote areas than urban areas. Parents reported that oral health problems increased the probability (OR 2.20, p < 0.05) of being bullied, in Indigenous children living in urban areas. Racial discrimination, lower level of parental education and poor child oral hygiene increase the risk of bullying victimization. Parental happiness with life and a safe community were associated with a lower risk of bullying. Dental problems are linked with Australian Indigenous children experiencing bullying victimization. Cultural resilience and eliminating discrimination may be two modifiable paths to ameliorating health issues associated with bullying in the Australian Indigenous community.
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Abstract
Social and political policy, human activities, and environmental change affect the ways in which microbial communities assemble and interact with people. These factors determine how different social groups are exposed to beneficial and/or harmful microorganisms, meaning microbial exposure has an important socioecological justice context. Therefore, greater consideration of microbial exposure and social equity in research, planning, and policy is imperative. Here, we identify 20 research questions considered fundamentally important to promoting equitable exposure to beneficial microorganisms, along with safeguarding resilient societies and ecosystems. The 20 research questions we identified span seven broad themes, including the following: (i) sociocultural interactions; (ii) Indigenous community health and well-being; (iii) humans, urban ecosystems, and environmental processes; (iv) human psychology and mental health; (v) microbiomes and infectious diseases; (vi) human health and food security; and (vii) microbiome-related planning, policy, and outreach. Our goal was to summarize this growing field and to stimulate impactful research avenues while providing focus for funders and policymakers.
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Abu-Saad K, Daoud N, Kaplan G, Ziv A, Cohen AD, Pollack D, Olmer L, Kalter-Leibovici O. A strengths-based approach to exploring diabetes management in an Indigenous minority population: A mixed methods study. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0261030. [PMID: 34890440 PMCID: PMC8664199 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0261030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Indigenous and other marginalized racial/ethnic minorities have poorer health status than majority populations, including higher rates of type 2 diabetes. These disparities have typically been addressed using a 'deficit-based' discourse that isolates disease management from the broader social, economic, political context and does not incorporate patient perspectives. We aimed to explore factors affecting glycemic control among Indigenous Arabs with diabetes in Israel using a strengths-based approach that centered participants' knowledge of their context, needs, resources and strengths. We conducted an exploratory sequential mixed methods study, which included 10 focus groups (5 men's, 5 women's) and 296 quantitative in-person surveys. Participants with diagnosed diabetes were randomly drawn from the patient list of the largest healthcare service organization (survey response rate: 93%). Prominent and interconnected themes emerged from focus group discussions, including: diet, physical activity, and social, economic, mental/psychological and political stress. The discussions raised the need for adapting diabetes management approaches to incorporate participants' communal, physical and psychological well-being, and socioeconomic/political realities. The connections between these factors and diabetes management were also reflected in multivariable analyses of the survey data. Women (OR: 2.03; 95% CI: 1.09-4.63), people with disabilities (OR: 2.43; 95% CI: 1.28-4.64), and unemployed people (OR: 2.64; 95% CI: 1.28-5.44) had higher odds of economic barriers to diabetes management. Furthermore, female sex (OR: 2.26; 95% CI: 1.25-4.09), unemployment (OR: 4.07; 95% CI: 1.64-10.10), and suboptimal glycemic control (OR: 1.20, 95% CI: 1.03-1.41 per 1-unit increase in HbA1c) were associated with moderate-to-severe depressive symptoms. A pro-active, team-based healthcare approach incorporating Indigenous/minority participants' knowledge, experience, and strengths has the potential to improve individuals' diabetes management. Healthcare services should be structured in ways that enable providers to listen to their patients, address their key concerns, and foster their strengths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen Abu-Saad
- Gertner Institute for Epidemiology and Health Policy Research, Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan, Israel
- * E-mail:
| | - Nihaya Daoud
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Giora Kaplan
- Gertner Institute for Epidemiology and Health Policy Research, Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Arnona Ziv
- Gertner Institute for Epidemiology and Health Policy Research, Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Arnon D. Cohen
- Clalit Health Services, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Siaal Research Center for Family Medicine and Primary Care, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Daphna Pollack
- Gertner Institute for Epidemiology and Health Policy Research, Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Liraz Olmer
- Gertner Institute for Epidemiology and Health Policy Research, Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Ofra Kalter-Leibovici
- Gertner Institute for Epidemiology and Health Policy Research, Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
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Hayward A, Wodtke L, Craft A, Robin T, Smylie J, McConkey S, Nychuk A, Healy C, Star L, Cidro J. Addressing the need for indigenous and decolonized quantitative research methods in Canada. SSM Popul Health 2021; 15:100899. [PMID: 34584930 PMCID: PMC8455856 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2021.100899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Though qualitative methods are often an appropriate Indigenous methodology and have dominated the literature on Indigenous research methods, they are not the only methods available for health research. There is a need for decolonizing and Indigenizing quantitative research methods, particularly in the discipline of epidemiology, to better address the public health needs of Indigenous populations who continue to face health inequities because of colonial systems, as well as inaccurate and incomplete data collection about themselves. For the last two decades, researchers in colonized countries have been calling for a specifically Indigenous approach to epidemiology that recognizes the limits of Western epidemiological methods, incorporates more Indigenous research methodologies and community-based participatory research methods, builds capacity by training more Indigenous epidemiologists, and supports Indigenous self-determination. Indigenous epidemiology can include a variety of approaches, including: shifting standards, such as age standardization, according to Indigenous populations to give appropriate weight to their experiences; carefully setting recruitment targets and using appropriate recruitment methods to fulfill statistical standards for stratification; acting as a bridge between Indigenous and Western technoscientific perspectives; developing culturally appropriate data collection tools; and developing distinct epidemiological methods based on Indigenous knowledge systems. This paper explores how decolonization and Indigenization of epidemiology has been operationalized in recent Canadian studies and projects, including the First Nations Regional Longitudinal Health Survey and how this decolonization and Indigenization might be augmented with the capacity-building of the future Our Health Counts Applied Indigenous Epidemiology, Health Information, and Health Services and Program Evaluation Training and Mentorship Program in Canada.
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Key Words
- CBPR, community-based participatory research
- CIHR, Canadian Institutes of Health Research
- Capacity-building
- Community-based participatory research
- Decolonized
- Epidemiology
- FNIGC, First Nations Information Governance Centre
- FNIM, First Nations Inuit and Métis
- ISC, Indigenous Services of Canada
- Indigenous research methods
- NEIHR, Network Environments for Indigenous Health Research
- OHC-NET, Our Health Counts Applied Indigenous Epidemiology, Health Information and Health Services and Program Evaluation Training and Mentorship Program
- PAHO, Pan American Health Organization
- Quantitative methods
- RHS, The First Nations Regional Longitudinal Health Survey
- TEC, Tribal Epidemiology Centers
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Hayward
- University of Winnipeg, 515 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3B 2E9, Canada
| | - Larissa Wodtke
- University of Winnipeg, 515 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3B 2E9, Canada
| | - Aimée Craft
- University of Ottawa, 57 Louis Pasteur Street, Ottawa, Ontario, K1N 6N5, Canada
| | - Tabitha Robin
- University of Manitoba, 66 Chancellors Circle, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3T 2N2, Canada
| | - Janet Smylie
- Centre for Urban Health Solutions (C-UHS), St. Michael's Hospital, 30 Bond Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5B 1W8, Canada
| | - Stephanie McConkey
- Centre for Urban Health Solutions (C-UHS), St. Michael's Hospital, 30 Bond Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5B 1W8, Canada
| | - Alexandra Nychuk
- University of Winnipeg, 515 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3B 2E9, Canada
| | - Chyloe Healy
- Blackfoot Confederacy, 820 59th Ave S.E., Unit 100, Calgary, AB, T2H 2G5, Canada
| | - Leona Star
- First Nations Health and Social Secretariat of Manitoba, 74-360 Kernaghan Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R2C 5G1, Canada
| | - Jaime Cidro
- University of Winnipeg, 515 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3B 2E9, Canada
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26
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Luke JN, Thorpe A, Black C, Thorpe L, Thomas D, Eades S, Rowley K. Collaborative Social-Epidemiology: A Co-analysis of the Cultural and Structural Determinants of Health for Aboriginal Youth in Victorian Schools. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:8674. [PMID: 34444421 PMCID: PMC8393666 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18168674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Social-epidemiology that excludes Aboriginal voices often fails to capture the full and complex social worlds of Aboriginal people. Using data from an existing co-designed Victorian government Adolescent Health and Wellbeing Survey (2008/9), we worked with Aboriginal organizations to identify data priorities, select measures, interpret data, and contextualize findings. Using this participatory co-analysis approach, we selected "cultural" and "structural" determinants identified by Aboriginal organizations as important and modelled these using principal component analysis. Resulting components were then modelled using logistic regression to investigate associations with "likely being well" (Kessler-10 score < 20) for 88 Aboriginal adolescents aged 11-17 years. Principal component analysis grouped 11 structural variables into four components and 11 cultural variables into three components. Of these, "grew up in Aboriginal family/community and connected" associated with significantly higher odds of "likely being well" (OR = 2.26 (1.01-5.06), p = 0.046). Conversely, "institutionally imposed family displacement" had significantly lower odds (OR = 0.49 (0.24-0.97), p = 0.040) and "negative police contact and poverty" non-significantly lower odds (OR = 0.53 (0.26-1.06), p = 0.073) for "likely being well". Using a co-analysis participatory approach, the voices of Aboriginal researchers and Aboriginal organizations were able to construct a social world that aligned with their ways of knowing, doing, and being. Findings highlighted institutionally imposed family displacement, policing, and poverty as social sites for health intervention and emphasized the importance of strong Aboriginal families for adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne Nicole Luke
- School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Carlton 3053, Australia; (A.T.); (S.E.); (K.R.)
| | - Alister Thorpe
- School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Carlton 3053, Australia; (A.T.); (S.E.); (K.R.)
| | - Carlina Black
- The Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency, Preston 3072, Australia;
| | - Lisa Thorpe
- Bubup Wilam-Aboriginal Child and Family Centre, Thomastown 3074, Australia;
| | - David Thomas
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Darwin 0810, Australia;
| | - Sandra Eades
- School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Carlton 3053, Australia; (A.T.); (S.E.); (K.R.)
- Curtin Medical School, Curtin University, Bentley 6102, Australia
| | - Kevin Rowley
- School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Carlton 3053, Australia; (A.T.); (S.E.); (K.R.)
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27
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Co-Designing Health Service Evaluation Tools That Foreground First Nation Worldviews for Better Mental Health and Wellbeing Outcomes. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18168555. [PMID: 34444319 PMCID: PMC8394671 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18168555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
It is critical that health service evaluation frameworks include Aboriginal people and their cultural worldviews from design to implementation. During a large participatory action research study, Elders, service leaders and Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal researchers co-designed evaluation tools to test the efficacy of a previously co-designed engagement framework. Through a series of co-design workshops, tools were built using innovative collaborative processes that foregrounded Aboriginal worldviews. The workshops resulted in the development of a three-way survey that records the service experiences related to cultural safety from the perspective of Aboriginal clients, their carer/s, and the service staff with whom they work. The surveys centralise the role of relationships in client-service interactions, which strongly reflect their design from an Aboriginal worldview. This paper provides new insights into the reciprocal benefits of engaging community Elders and service leaders to work together to develop new and more meaningful ways of servicing Aboriginal families. Foregrounding relationships in service evaluations reinstates the value of human connection and people-centred engagement in service delivery which are central to rebuilding historically fractured relationships between mainstream services and Aboriginal communities. This benefits not only Aboriginal communities, but also other marginalised populations expanding the remit of mainstream services to be accessed by many.
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28
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Measuring Social and Emotional Wellbeing in Aboriginal Youth Using Strong Souls: A Rasch Measurement Approach. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18168425. [PMID: 34444174 PMCID: PMC8391716 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18168425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Currently, there are few robustly evaluated social and emotional wellbeing (SEWB) measures available for use with Aboriginal youth in research, policy, and practice. As such, this study used a Rasch measurement approach to examine the psychometric properties of Strong Souls, a 25-item self-reported SEWB instrument, created for use with Aboriginal youth in the Northern Territory. Our sample (N = 154) included youth (15–25 years old) living on Whadjuk (metropolitan Western Australia; N = 91) and Kamilaroi countries (rural New South Wales; N = 63). Using Rasch modelling techniques, evidence for multidimensionality in the scale was observed, resulting in subsequent analyses conducted separately on two subscales: Psychological Distress and Resilience. The Resilience subscale did not meet the Rasch model assumptions, with poor person and item separation and reliability indexes suggesting the scale was not reliably differentiating between participants’ Resilience scores. The Psychological Distress subscale had mixed separation and reliability index results, with good construct validity implied but poorer ability to target the distress of participants. Our findings provide novel evidence demonstrating the functioning of Strong Souls in a contemporary sample of Aboriginal youth, suggesting further modifications of the instrument are required before it can be used with confidence as a reliable measure in this population group.
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29
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Thurber KA, Thandrayen J, Maddox R, Barrett EM, Walker J, Priest N, Korda RJ, Banks E, Williams DR, Lovett R. Reflection on modern methods: statistical, policy and ethical implications of using age-standardized health indicators to quantify inequities. Int J Epidemiol 2021; 51:324-333. [PMID: 34223891 PMCID: PMC8855998 DOI: 10.1093/ije/dyab132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Methods for calculating health indicators profoundly influence understanding of and action on population health and inequities. Age-standardization can be useful and is commonly applied to account for differences in age structures when comparing health indicators across groups. Age-standardized rates have well-acknowledged limitations, including that they are relative indices for comparison, and not accurate measures of actual rates where the age structures of groups diverge. This paper explores these limitations, and demonstrates alternative approaches through a case study quantifying mortality rates within the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (Indigenous) population of Australia and inequities compared with the non-Indigenous population, over 2001–16. Applying the Australian Standard Population, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander age-standardized mortality rate was more than double the crude mortality rate in 2001 and 2016, inflated through high weighting of older age groups. Despite divergent population age structures, age-standardized mortality rates remain a key policy metric for measuring progress in reducing Indigenous-non-Indigenous inequities in Australia. Focusing on outcomes age-standardized to the total population can obscure inequities, and denies Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities valid, actionable information about their health and well-being. Age-specific statistics convey the true magnitude of health risks and highlight high-risk subgroups. When requiring standardization, standardizing to a population-specific standard (here, an Indigenous standard) generates metrics centred around and reflective of reality for the population of focus, supporting communities’ self-determination to identify priorities and informing resource allocation and service delivery. The principles outlined here apply across populations, including Indigenous and other populations internationally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine A Thurber
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University, Acton ACT, Australia
| | - Joanne Thandrayen
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University, Acton ACT, Australia
| | - Raglan Maddox
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University, Acton ACT, Australia
| | - Eden M Barrett
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University, Acton ACT, Australia
| | - Jennie Walker
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University, Acton ACT, Australia
| | - Naomi Priest
- Centre for Social Research and Methods, College of Arts and Social Sciences, Australian National University, Acton ACT, Australia.,Population Health, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Rosemary J Korda
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University, Acton ACT, Australia
| | - Emily Banks
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University, Acton ACT, Australia.,Sax Institute, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
| | - David R Williams
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of African and African American Studies, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Raymond Lovett
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University, Acton ACT, Australia
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30
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Lovett RW, Brinckley MM. Community level cultural connectedness and suicide by young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Med J Aust 2021; 214:511-512. [PMID: 34018202 DOI: 10.5694/mja2.51092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Raymond W Lovett
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, the Australian National University, Canberra, ACT.,Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies, Canberra, ACT
| | - Makayla-May Brinckley
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, the Australian National University, Canberra, ACT
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31
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Maddox R, Thurber KA, Calma T, Banks E, Lovett R. Deadly news: the downward trend continues in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander smoking 2004-2019. Aust N Z J Public Health 2020; 44:449-450. [PMID: 33104287 DOI: 10.1111/1753-6405.13049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Raglan Maddox
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University, Australian Capital Territory
| | - Katherine A Thurber
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University, Australian Capital Territory
| | - Tom Calma
- Office of the National Coordinator, Tackling Indigenous Smoking, Australian Capital Territory.,Poche Indigenous Health Network, New South Wales.,NintiOne, South Australia
| | - Emily Banks
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University, Australian Capital Territory
| | - Raymond Lovett
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University, Australian Capital Territory
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