Risk communication and perceptions about lead ammunition and Inuit health in Nunavik, Canada

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Indigenous Health
• Toxicology

Background:

• Lead ammunition is widely used for hunting in the Arctic, posing a risk of toxicant transfer to consumers.
• Understanding public perception and awareness of lead ammunition risks is crucial for Arctic populations.
• The Nunavik Child Development Study highlighted the need to address lead ammunition use in hunting.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess awareness and perceptions of lead ammunition risks among Nunavik residents.
• To evaluate the impact of educational messages on reducing lead ammunition use.

Main Methods:

• A survey was conducted with 112 residents in Nunavik, Canada.
• Participants were questioned on their awareness of lead messages, ammunition use, and contaminant risk perception.
• The study involved assessing responses before and after participants viewed educational materials.

Main Results:

• Nearly 60% of households had an active hunter.
• Only 27% of participants had previously encountered messages about reducing lead ammunition.
• After viewing educational messages, 44% intended to stop using lead ammunition, while 28% planned to continue.

Conclusions:

• Educational messages positively influenced some residents' intentions regarding lead ammunition use.
• A substantial percentage of participants continued to use lead ammunition despite awareness campaigns.
• Further research is needed to understand the reasons behind the continued use of lead ammunition in the Arctic.