Health Research

Overview

Our Health Research team was created in 2005 to focus on understanding the experiences and perspectives of Red River Métis Citizens through qualitative research methods, driving evidence-based practices and solutions to create culturally relevant health knowledge.


Get Involved

We have several projects currently looking for Citizen participation!


Clearing the Air - Implementing the Tobacco Strategy

Given the high prevalence of smoking-related morbidities among Red River Métis (Martens et al., 2010), the MMF-HWD strives towards implementing the Clearing the Air: Red River Métis-specific Tobacco Reduction Strategy (2025). The project takes a culturally sensitive, community-driven approach to commercial tobacco reduction, prevention, education, and support services to mitigate the harmful effects of commercial tobacco use.

 

If you are interested in learning about supports for commercial tobacco reduction and education, please join our waitlist here.


Maternal Health in Red River Métis Citizens: Improving Access to maternal and child health care services

We are currently inviting Red River Métis Citizens to participate in focus groups to gather maternal health experiences and increase awareness of health risks through culturally specific educational sessions on prenatal topics.

Meta-CARE: Culturally Appropriate Resources and Education Supporting Red River Métis

Expanding on the findings published in The Red River Métis Cancer Journey in Manitoba (2023), there remains inadequate support for Citizens navigating provincial cancer resources, especially for those impacted by metastatic breast cancer. To better understand their lived experiences, the MMF-HWD will host focus group with Citizens that will inform the development of educational resources aimed at improving awareness and access to specialized supports.

If you are interested in participating or want more information, please email us at healthresearch@mmf.mb.ca

Other Current Initiatives

Connect to Change
To expand MMF-HWD's efforts to reduce commercial tobacco use in the Community, the team is delivering a Connect to Change initiative-a group-based tobacco cessation program designed to build social support networks and promote culturally grounded physical wellness activities. We are actively recruiting Citizens to participate in the 8-week program, which will launch in the coming months. For more information, please contact us at healthresearch@mmf.mb.ca



Distance to Care: Cancer Outcomes for Red River Métis Citizens in Rural Manitoba:
This project aims to explore challenges faced by Red River Métis Citizens in remote and rural areas during their cancer journey, through consultations with Citizens in these Communities to develop programs and policies enhancing cancer care for Red River Métis Citizens.



Using Therapeutic and Culture-based Approaches to Support the Well-being of Care Partners of Red River Métis Citizens Living with Dementia:
To enhance the quality of life for Red River Métis with dementia and their caregivers, we will offer culturally specific services, including counseling, cultural events, and sharing circles, emphasizing spirituality as a healing intervention. The project aims to develop Red River Métis tailored educational resources and support.



Riel Personalized Healthcare - Implementing the Cancer Strategy
In alignment with the MMF-HWD's ongoing commitment to address health disparities and distinctions-based cancer care, the project supports implementation of the Red River Métis Cancer Strategy (2023)-ensuring every Citizen has access to personalized, and culturally safe cancer care. Key initiatives include increasing awareness of prevention and screening options, the development of precision oncology, fostering cultural safety among cancer care specialists, and improving navigation of provincial services throughout the cancer journey.

Past Initiatives - Click here to see more!

Cannabis and Mental Health:
This study explored Red River Métis perceptions of cannabis use post-legalization, examining attitudes toward recreational and medicinal use. Further research on evolving attitudes will assist Red River Métis in understanding the health benefits of cannabis, reducing stigma, and developing Community-specific resources on cannabis use.



Living Smoke Free: Red River Métis Tobacco Reduction Strategy:
To reduce smoking and vaping rates, we are crafting tailored approaches for Red River Métis smokers to quit or cut down tobacco use. We're also preventing nicotine use among youth and non-smokers. Based on consultations and expert input, we are finalizing a Tobacco Reduction Strategy to support Red River Métis Citizens in reducing and preventing tobacco use.


Red River Métis Cancer Journey & Cancer Strategy:
This study aimed to gather stories from Red River Métis Citizens affected by cancer, along with insights from care givers. The goal was to identify barriers and strategies to enhance the cancer journey. The findings informed the Red River Métis Cancer Strategy, guiding efforts to improve cancer care for Red River Métis in Manitoba.


Red River Métis Perspectives on Medical Red River Métis Citizens' Assistance in Dying (MAID)

This project gathered Red River Métis Citizens' perspectives on MAID through interviews and focus groups, filling the gap in federally issued monitoring reports. These findings will inform federal health policy planning.


Red River Métis Opioids Strategy:
This study examined the impact of opioid use on Red River Métis Citizens, families, and Communities. Citizens shared their experiences with opioid use, perceptions of both illicit and prescription opioids, and suggestions for MMF support. Insights gathered will inform culturally relevant programming and support initiatives for our Citizens.


REACH: Radon Education and Assessment for Community Health:
To address the risk of lung cancer among Red River Métis, the the MMF-HWD launched a radon pilot project. They distributed 100 radon tests to homes and installed radon-lowering systems in those with elevated levels, all at no cost. The initiative also aimed to raise awareness of radon exposure risks and their connection to lung cancer through surveys and educational materials.

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