Grant: Travel Awards - Institute Community Support

PURPOSE: Indigenous peoples are at a higher risk for many chronic diseases compared to the general population. Colonization and forced assimilation have led to marked changes in traditional roles and healthy lifestyle behaviors. The purpose of this study was to examine vascular health (arterial compliance) prior to and following an Indigenous-led, and community-based 12-week lifestyle program representing Indigenous views of wholistic health and wellness. METHODS: Indigenous adults were recruited to participate in a healthy lifestyle program through a community walk on National Indigenous Peoples Day (21/06/2018) in an Indigenous community. The program was a once weekly education session on healthy lifestyle behaviours (e.g., traditional diet), including sharing circles and a physical activity component (e.g., walk). Vascular health was measured before and following the program. RESULTS: A total of 11 participants (1 male; Age = 47.3±10.7 yr, Height = 161.1±6.4 cm, and Weight = 82.3±18.3 kg) completed vascular health assessments. Vascular health (artery stiffness) was improved over the program duration. There were no significant changes in blood pressure or vascular resistance following the program. CONCLUSIONS: Artery stiffness, an important predictor of vascular health, is improved in Indigenous adults living in rural British Columbia following a 12-week program based on Indigenous worldviews. This data demonstrates health-related benefit of culturally appropriate programs.