The First Nations Food, Nutrition and Environment Study (2008-2018)-rationale, design, methods and lessons learned

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Nutrition Science
• Community-Based Participatory Research

Background:

• The First Nations Food, Nutrition and Environment Study (FNFNES) was implemented across eight Assembly of First Nations regions in Canada.
• The study adhered to the First Nations principles of Ownership, Control, Access, and Possession (OCAP®).

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the rationale and participatory methodology of the FNFNES.
• To document lessons learned during the implementation of this large-scale community-based research project.
• To provide evidence on the human dimension of environmental degradation affecting First Nations.

Main Methods:

• A random sampling strategy using an 11-ecozone framework ensured representative data collection.
• Data were collected from 2008 to 2016, involving household interviews, water sampling (tap and surface), hair, and traditional food sampling.
• First Nations communities actively participated in the planning and execution of all data collection components.

Main Results:

• A total of 6487 adults from 92 First Nations participated, achieving a 78% participation rate.
• The study collected regionally representative evidence on nutritional and environmental health indicators.
• Findings offer insights into the human impact of environmental changes on First Nations populations.

Conclusions:

• The FNFNES exemplifies successful participatory research, offering a model for public health initiatives.
• The collected data are vital for community empowerment, environmental stewardship, and promoting health among First Nations peoples.
• Public health professionals are encouraged to utilize FNFNES findings for policy and program development.