MNO citizens showcase Métis health research at 2024 CPHA Conference
A delegation of researchers recently presented ongoing Métis research at the 2024 Canadian Public Health Association (CPHA) annual conference in Halifax, NS.
The conference brings together public health professionals, researchers, policy-makers, academics, and students for three days of networking and dialogue.
Three Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) citizens, Abigail Simms, Sabastian Koprich and Carolyn Lacka attended the conference alongside Sarah Edwards, PhD and ICES staff scientist seconded to the MNO; and graduate students Noel Tsui and Helana Boutros.
“[This year], there was a big focus on social determinants of health, racism and its affects on health, and climate change, which was nice to see as they are important topics that often don’t get the time they deserve at big meetings,” says Abigail.
“It was great to share what the MNO is doing to improve the health and wellness of the individual, the family and the whole Métis community as set out within our MNO Statement of Prime Purpose and to hear what other Indigenous nations and communities are doing to address the needs of public health needs of their people.”
A memorable moment for attendees included a panel presentation by Métis physician Dr. Janet Smylie and panelist Dr. Catherine Cook, who addressed structural racism as a determinant of health.
“Both these women are among the first Métis female public health physicians in Canada,” comments Sarah. “It was exciting to see prominent Métis leadership at the conference.”
This is the third year that MNO researchers have presented their findings at CPHA. This year, an impressive four submitted abstracts were accepted, including three poster presentations and one oral plus poster presentation.
The MNO congratulates all researchers on a successful conference. By leading research in this important area, they are creating new knowledge that can help the broader Métis community. Follow the MNO website and social media for chances to get involved in future Métis-led research!
About the research presented
Scoping Review of the Landscape of Métis Health: Research with the Métis often uses a distinctions-based approach, which means recognizing the unique needs of Métis communities and citizens. To understand important priorities and concerns, research must look at the current state of Métis-specific health. In this study, researchers did a scoping review led by the MNO to describe the Métis health research landscape from 1983 to 2022.
Mental health and wellness of MNO citizens before and during COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic caused high levels of mental health issues, but there are few reports on its impact on Indigenous peoples’ mental health. There are no reports specifically about Métis mental health, even though the Métis are one of the three constitutionally recognized Indigenous peoples in Canada. This study looked at changes in mental health and addictions-related outpatient services for MNO citizens before and during the pandemic using population-based data. Another study used sharing circles and interviews to understand the mental health experiences of MNO citizens during this time.
Cannabis use and self-reported mental health in citizens of the MNO
In Canada, studies show a link between poor mental health and cannabis use in the general population. However, there is little research on how cannabis use affects the mental health of Métis people. This study used survey data to look at the connection between self-reported cannabis use and self-reported mental health in MNO citizens.
About the researchers
Abigail Simms, MPH (ICES Epidemiologist seconded to the MNO and MNO citizen), Lead author on poster presentation: The mental health and wellness of MNO citizens before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: An exploration through sharing circles and interviews
Noel Tsui, MPH (ICES Epidemiologist seconded to the MNO), Lead author on poster presentation: A population-based repeated cross-sectional study using administrative health data to examine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental wellness in citizens of the Métis Nation of Ontario
Helana Boutros, MPH (former MNO practicum student), Lead author on poster presentation: Scoping Review of the Landscape of Métis Health
Sabastian Koprich, MPH (current MNO practicum student and MNO citizen), Co-authored poster presentation: Scoping Review of the Landscape of Métis Health
Carolyn Lacka, MPH (former MNO practicum student, MNO citizen and currently MNC Health Policy Analyst), Lead author on poster and oral presentation: Cannabis use and self-reported mental health in citizens of the Métis Nation of Ontario: a cross-sectional analyses
Sarah Edwards, PhD (ICES Staff Scientist seconded to the MNO), presenting author on poster and oral presentation: Cannabis use and self-reported mental health in citizens of the Métis Nation of Ontario: a cross-sectional analyses