Grant: Operating Grant - PA: First Nations, Inuit and Metis Health

It is well established that there is a disparity in health status and associated social determinants of health between Aboriginal people, including the Métis, and the general population of Canada. Participation in traditional activities, such as hunting and gathering, has been utilized to improve health status. The purpose of this study is to assess the health promoting effects of hunting and gathering amongst Métis in British Columbia. To identify the health implications of hunting and gathering 3 phases of research will be implemented, first a case study will utilize focus group and individual interviews with Métis community members and stakeholders to assess the engagement in hunting and gathering, perceived and physical and social benefits. Researchers will also participate with harvesters and utilize global positioning systems and other technologies to monitor the level of physical activity in harvesting activities. The second phase will utilize the case study data to develop a survey tool that will be administered to Métis hunters and gathers from across British Columbia. Once the qualitative data and quantitative data are collected and analyzed community discussions will begin in phase 3. The aim of these discussions is to develop guidelines to support the development of culturally appropriate approaches to support healthy living in Métis communities.