“As the Rivers Flow: Brain Attack”
“Next to Cardiac and Cancer mortality, stroke
is the third leading cause of death in Northwestern Ontario”.
Dr. David Howse, Neurologist, TBRHSC.
April 30, 2009
The Innovation:
The Northwestern Ontario Regional Stroke Program is proud
to announce the development of a DVD to educate our Aboriginal
population regarding stroke; signs and symptoms; and what
to do in case of stroke. Funding for the research project
was received from the Ontario Stroke System. The research
project was a partnership with the Centre for Rural and Northern
Health Research.
The Need:
With the Aboriginal percentage of the population substantially
greater in Northwestern Ontario (13.9%) than in the Province
(1.7%), there is a growing incidence of risk factors for cerebrovascular
disease. High blood pressure is 2.8 times more prevalent in
Aboriginal men and 2.5 times more prevalent in Aboriginal
women than non-Aboriginal Canadians. Correspondingly, Aboriginal
people in Canada have a higher prevalence of dyslipidemia,
diabetes, obesity and tobacco use.
The Story:
Following the path of the river, the Sharing Circle DVD uses
Aboriginal (or the animal system) and medical teachings about
stroke. Understanding what a stroke is, or “brain attack”,
is captured in the Sharing Circle. Warning signs and where
to go for help are also discussed. Community, family and friends
can learn from sharing this resource. (17 minutes, in English,
dubbed in Ojibwe & Oji-Cree).
The Background:
The research project, in partnership with six First Nations
in Northwestern Ontario (one urban, three rural and two remote),
was designed to: (i) document Aboriginal people’s understanding
of what a stroke is, signs, symptoms and effects; (ii) document
stroke resources available in communities and where to go
for help; and (iii) note Aboriginal people’s preferences
regarding cultural content and health material formats. Research
involving “circle” focus groups, assessed the
experiences and opinions of 105 Aboriginal individuals, including
stroke survivors and their family caregivers. Results were
used to develop a culturally appropriate educational
DVD “As the River Flows: Brain Attack” for
the First Nations population living in Northwestern Ontario.
It is anticipated that this educational DVD offers information
and approaches that will be used by other Aboriginal communities
throughout Ontario and Canada.
::
back to Media Releases ::
|
