Effects of knowledge about tuberculosis on its prevalence in Inuit communities in Nunavut, Northern Canada

Abstract

Rising tuberculosis cases are a global health issue that the United Nations Member States have committed to eradicating by 2030. In developed countries such as Canada, TB affects Indigenous populations disproportionately. Inuit people have 300 times greater risk of TB infections compared to non-Indigenous people. Due to Canada's colonial history, Indigenous people remain underrepresented in healthcare. Therefore, this research proposal aims to understand the link between the lack of access to resources, such as knowledge about tuberculosis and the rising TB cases, among Inuit people in Northern Canada. It is hypothesized that due to marginalization and cultural ignorance, preventative measures are not accessible to Inuit people and can influence the high transmission of the disease. Based on the results of the inclusive design of this research, future studies can aim to help voice the concerns of Indigenous people and advocate for their right to access equitable healthcare.