Arts-Based Research Methods to Explore Cancer in Indigenous Communities

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Indigenous Health
• Cancer Research

Background:

• Indigenous peoples face significant cancer inequities.
• Arts-based methods offer culturally relevant interventions and research tools for cancer.
• These approaches can address disparities in cancer care and outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a scoping review on arts-based research methods used for Indigenous peoples and cancer.
• To identify how arts-based research addresses cancer across the continuum of care.
• To synthesize findings on communities, cancer types, art forms, and methodologies.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search identified 129 publications.
• 32 publications were selected for detailed review.
• Data extracted included communities, cancer control stages, cancer types, art forms, and research methodologies.

Main Results:

• Most studies were conducted in the United States.
• Art as research and sound art were the most common methods.
• Specific cancer types and control continuum stages were infrequently detailed.

Conclusions:

• Culturally responsive, arts-based methods can enhance cancer research and education for Indigenous populations.
• These methods are valuable across the entire cancer control continuum.
• Arts-based approaches hold promise for improving cancer outcomes in Indigenous communities.