International Union for Circumpolar Health Ministry of Public Health and Social Development of RF Russian Academy of Medical Sciences Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Medical Sciences Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences Medical Polar Fund “Science” The Northern Forum

Abstracts

Alcohol, smoking, and drug abuse

Objective: The objective of this paper was to develop an evidence-base of available programs and services to prevent Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) and support Inuit affected by FASD. Gaps in programs, services and policies related to FASD were also explored.

Study Design/Methods: An environmental scan of available services in Inuit regions in Canada for the prevention of FASD and supports for people affected by FASD was conducted to establish baseline information on FASD interventions and programming. A culturally relevant, Inuit-specific questionnaire was developed. An extensive list of 44 individuals/organizations was developed, representing health care delivery organizations, schools, Inuit associations and corrections organizations from the four Inuit regions in Canada. The questionnaires were faxed or emailed with follow-up calls made within 48 hours. A response rate of 82 per cent was achieved. Two separate literature reviews were also conducted. One examined Inuit-specific literature related to FASD; the other examined the mainstream literature on FASD.

Results: Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is a pressing issue facing many Inuit communities. Anecdotal evidence leads many experts to believe that the rate of FASD among Inuit is many times higher than the national average. To establish an evidence-base of available prevention and support services in Inuit communities, the Ajunnginiq Centre conducted this environmental scan/survey. Three themes emerged from the scan: a lack of funding and human resources, a need for Inuit-specific research and a need to address issues around stigmatization of FASD affected individuals. Two major gaps were identified. Most of the programs and services identified were local, individual activities, not ongoing, coordinated efforts. There is little funding available for training, service provision, prevention and counselling. Upon examination of the findings, it was clear that most activities are focused on promotion and raising awareness. No-one in Canada is working with Inuit women at risk of having a baby affected by FASD. As for literature, there is an abundance of literature on FASD, however, very little is relevant to the unique social, geographic and cultural needs of Inuit.

Conclusion: Despite strong efforts on the part of frontline workers, the capacity to address Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder is insufficient in the Inuit regions in Canada.

Note. Abstracts are published in author's edition

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Last update: 06-Jul-2012 (11:52:05)