The findings of a study into diabetes in the urban Aboriginal population finds it should be treated as a family illness — and that cultural healing should be part of the process.
The research paper was released at a major diabetes conference in Vancouver last week.
Lead researcher Jane Harrison says genetics, diet and lifestyle are key factors in the disease, which is three to five times higher in the Aboriginal community:
“So the research that came through indicated that culture was key — and that ownership and design and methodology, in terms of Aboriginals’ perceptions of health and perceptions of relationships with family and community, were paramount.”
The study found that nearly 70% of respondents felt cultural teachings can help Aboriginal people manage the disease.