Donate Now

Inflammatory Arthritis Prevention and Treatment in Indigenous Communities

The Problem

Inflammatory arthritis affects Indigenous Peoples at higher rates than the general population, and Indigenous Peoples face greater barriers to getting timely diagnosis, treatment, and receiving ongoing care. We don’t know who is at higher risk of developing inflammatory arthritis and why, which makes it hard to prevent the disease and properly support people living with it.

The Research

This project will study Indigenous Peoples of all ages and genders from rural and urban communities to better understand genetic, environmental, immune, and social factors that contribute to inflammatory arthritis risk. The study will also explore how to deliver culturally appropriate care by working directly with Indigenous communities to create treatment approaches that reflect their needs and traditions. This project will be done in partnership with Indigenous communities: Siksika First Nation, Kainai First Nation, Elbow River Healing Lodge, and the Otipemisiwak Métis government.

The Impact

By learning who is at risk and how inflammatory arthritis care can better meet the needs of Indigenous Peoples, this project will support earlier detection and provide more accessible and culturally relevant arthritis care. This will ultimately lead to better health equity for Indigenous Peoples with arthritis.

Research Study

This project aims to improve health equity for Indigenous Peoples with arthritis by better understanding the genetic, environmental, immune, and social factors that influence their risk of developing inflammatory arthritis. It will also develop culturally appropriate and patient-centred care strategies informed by Indigenous communities to improve treatment and support.

Learn More

Research Scientist

Cheryl Barnabe

Senior Scientist, Rheumatology, MD, MSc, FRCPC

Dr. Cheryl Barnabe is a rheumatologist and member of the Otipemisiwak Metis Government (formerly the Metis Nation of Alberta). She is the Arthur JE Child Chair in Rheumatology Outcomes Research and a Canada Research Chair in Rheumatoid Arthritis and Autoimmune Diseases. She is a Professor in the Departments of Medicine and Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary. She is the Director of the McCaig Institute for Bone and Joint Health.

Don’t Stop Here.

Want to support this and other life-changing arthritis research?

Donate Now

Stay Connected

Get the latest arthritis research news and events delivered to your inbox.