Partnering with First Nations in Northern British Columbia Canada to Reduce Inequity in Access to Genomic Research.

Indigenous-led, culturally safe health research and infrastructure are essential to address existing inequities and disparities for Indigenous Peoples globally. Biobanking, genomic research, and self-governance could reduce the existing divide and increase Indigenous participation in health research. While genomic research advances medicine, barriers persist for Indigenous patients to benefit. In northern BC, Canada, the Northern Biobank Initiative (NBI), with guidance from a Northern First Nations Biobank Advisory Committee (NFNBAC), has engaged in consultations with First Nations on biobanking and genomic research. Key informant interviews and focus groups conducted with First Nations leaders, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and community members established culturally safe ways of biobanking and exploring genomic research. Strong support for a Northern British Columbia First Nations Biobank (NBCFNB) that will promote choice, inclusion, and access to health research opportunities emerged. The acceptance and enthusiasm for the development of this NBCFNB and its governance table highlight the shift towards Indigenous ownership and support of health research and its benefits. With engagement and partnership, community awareness, multigenerational involvement, and support from diverse and experienced healthcare leaders, the NBCFNB will establish this culturally safe, locally driven, and critically important research priority that may serve as an example for diverse Indigenous groups when designing their unique biobanking or genomic research opportunities.

Highlighting strengths and resources that increase ownership of cervical cancer screening for Indigenous communities in Northern British Columbia: Community-driven approaches.

OBJECTIVE: To examine the unique and diverse strengths held by rural and remote Indigenous communities in northern British Columbia, including multi-generational support systems in health and wellness, profound connections to the land, and strong cultural foundations, and harness these strengths, allowing communities to engage in innovative and empowering health and wellness programs. METHODS: Building on these pre-existing and fundamental strengths, an alternative option to cervical cancer screening was introduced to nine Carrier Sekani health centers located in northern interior British Columbia in response to disparities in screening rates. Introduced in 2019, CervixCheck uses a self-collection approach that is private, safe, convenient, and offered at local community health centers by trained and supportive health staff. RESULTS: Using a strengths-based and community directed and descriptive approach, the process was outlined for a successful and ongoing health screening opportunity that is put into the hands of community members within Indigenous communities in the region of northern British Columbia. CONCLUSION: Through collaborative partnerships, in-person engagement sessions, and the utilization of pre-existing infrastructure and health and wellness teams, this project was successfully integrated into primary care centers using culturally safe and community-based approaches.