8.2 Indigenous Peoples

8.2.1 Indigenous Peoples & Breast Cancer

You should receive health care in an environment that you feel is culturally safe and accessible for everyone.

Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer diagnosed in First Nations peoples of British Columbia (First Nations Health Authority [FNHA], 2017a). As such, you should ensure that you are receiving the appropriate screening and treatment during your breast cancer journey.

BC Cancer provides cancer support resources for First Nations and Métis peoples.

As well, the First Nations Health Authority has a helpful guide for First Nations peoples in BC who have been diagnosed with cancer or are looking for cancer information.

See Image 31 for a map of the population density and territories of Indigenous peoples in North America at the beginning of the 21st century (Fährtenleser, 2022).

8.2.2 Indigenous-Specific Cancer Care Services & Navigators

The First Nations Health Authority has a helpful booklet for First Nations peoples who have been diagnosed with cancer.

Within this booklet, there is specific information about cancer, including:

• support during diagnosis and treatment,
• traditional healing methods,
• what a wellness plan could look like,
• and what life after treatment could look like (FNHA, 2017b).

Aboriginal Patient Navigators (APNs) are professionals in health care who work with Indigenous populations during their care (Interior Health, 2021). They create a safe and welcoming environment so you can easily access your care. APNs are available in the Interior Health region, including Kamloops and Kelowna.

Similarly, Indigenous Health Liaisons provide support and guidance for Indigenous peoples in the Fraser Health region (Fraser Health, n.d.).

If you would like to learn more about ABNs and Indigenous Health Liaisons, check out the following resources.

Providence Health Care has an Indigenous Wellness program that focuses on practicing culturally safe and competent care for Indigenous populations.