Understanding culturally safe cancer survivorship care with inuit in an urban community

Abstract

Cancer is a leading cause of death among Inuit. A legacy of colonialism, residential schools, and systemic racism has eroded trust among Inuit and many do not receive culturally safe care. This study aimed to explore the meaning of culturally safe cancer survivorship care for Inuit, and barriers and facilitators to receiving it in an urban setting in Ontario Canada. As Inuit and Western researchers, we conducted a descriptive qualitative study. We held two focus groups (n = 27) with cancer survivors and family members, and semi-structured interviews (n = 7) with health providers. Data were analysed using thematic content analysis. Three broad themes emerged as central to culturally safe care: access to traditional ways of life, communication, and family involvement. Family support, patient navigators, and designated spaces were facilitators; lack of support for traditional ways, like country food, was a barrier. Participants were clear what constituted culturally safe care, but major barriers exist. Lack of direction at institutional and governmental levels contributes to the complexity of issues that prevent Inuit from engaging in and receiving culturally safe cancer care. To understand how to transform healthcare to be culturally safe, studies underpinned by Inuit epistemology, values, and principles are required.

Keywords

• inuit
• indigenous peoples
• cancer survivorship
• cultural safety
• qualitative research
• community-based research