This report is one of a series of eight based on the Nituuchischaayihtitaau Aschii study. The seven other reports present information for individual communities. Their purpose is to allow health personnel and decision-makers in each community to see the results of the Nituuchischaayihtitaau Aschii study for their particular community. This eighth report completes the series by providing a regional overview of the findings. It is intended for staff who work on region-wide programs, and for other interested parties.
The Nituuchischaayihtitaau Aschii (“Learn about us and our earth”) studies look at how the environment and way of life in Eeyou Istchee affect people’s health. The studies look at:
• How often people hunt, fish, and eat traditional food, and what this means for their nutrition, their exposure to various contaminants, and their risk of catching illnesses carried by animals (zoonoses);
• What “western” foods people are eating, and what this means for their nutrition and risk of developing illnesses like diabetes and heart disease;
• Where people are getting their drinking water, and how this affects their risk of contracting various water-borne illnesses.
In short, the studies look at the intricate relationship between the environment, hunting and eating habits, and health outcomes. This information helps the Cree Health Board to address people’s concerns about contaminants and assist them in making good food choices. It also helps the Board set priorities for health services (CBHSSJB, 2012). Beyond this, the studies had a related objective: to build local capacity in environmental sciences, through communication and training activities.
