The First Nations Biomonitoring Initiative-FNBI

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Indigenous Health Research
• Biomonitoring

Background:

• The First Nations Biomonitoring Initiative (FNBI) pilot study was conducted in winter 2010/2011.
• It involved 252 First Nations individuals residing on reserve in Canada.
• The study followed the methodology of Cycle 1 of the Canadian Health Measures Survey (CHMS).

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the levels of chemical contaminants in a First Nations population.
• To provide confidential results to participants and community-level reports.
• To establish a baseline for future national biomonitoring efforts.

Main Methods:

• Pilot study sampling of 252 First Nations individuals on reserve.
• Analysis of a suite of chemical contaminants.
• Confidential results and community reports to be disseminated.

Main Results:

• Analysis of pilot study results was expected by fall 2011.
• A national-scale study was planned for summer 2011/2012.
• National results were anticipated by spring 2012/2013.

Conclusions:

• The FNBI pilot study provided initial data on chemical contaminant exposure.
• The initiative aimed to inform community health and environmental policies.
• Further national-scale biomonitoring will expand understanding of contaminant levels in First Nations communities.