Can scientists and knowledge keepers sit comfortably together? An Indigenous physician's reflections on a decade of participatory research into First Nations nutrition, environment and health

Examining animal testing for risk assessment: A WC-12 workshop report

In toxicology and regulatory testing, the use of animal methods has been both a cornerstone and a subject of intense debate. To continue this discourse a panel and audience representing scientists from various sectors and countries convened at a workshop held during the 12th World Congress on Alternatives and Animal Use in the Life Sciences (WC-12). The ensuing discussion focused on the scientific and ethical considerations surrounding the necessity and responsibility of defending the creation of new animal data in regulatory testing. The primary aim was to foster an open dialogue between the panel members and the audience while encouraging diverse perspectives on the responsibilities and obligations of various stakeholders (including industry, regulatory bodies, technology developers, research scientists, and animal welfare NGOs) in defending the development and subsequent utilization of new animal data. This workshop summary report captures the key elements from this critical dialogue and collective introspection. It describes the intersection of scientific progress and ethical responsibility as all sectors seek to accelerate the pace of 21st century predictive toxicology and new approach methodologies (NAMs) for the protection of human health and the environment.

First Nations Peoples' Eating and Physical Activity Behaviors in Urban Areas: A Mixed-Methods Approach

The dietary transition from traditional to commercial foods and a decrease in physical activity (PA) have impacted the health of the First Nations people of Quebec (Canada), resulting in many suffering from multiple chronic diseases. This study had two objectives: (1) to examine eating and PA behaviors among First Nations peoples in urban areas and (2) to explore the associated health representations. To achieve these objectives, a mixed-methods approach, including a questionnaire (n = 32) and a semi-structured interview (n = 14), was used to explore the participants' lifestyle profiles and health experiences. The questionnaire focused on the eating and PA behaviors of First Nations people and their underlying motivations. At the same time, the interviews investigated their health views on diet and PA behaviors based on the conceptual framework of health and its determinants. According to the participants, health is the autonomy to live without pain by maintaining a balance between physical and psychological aspects, eating healthy and exercising. Family and work influence participants' PA and eating behaviors. Exploring First Nations people's beliefs and perceptions and the motivations underlying their health behaviors could help encourage the maintenance of a healthy lifestyle despite multiple chronic health conditions.