Two-Spirit Films in Indigenous Cancer Health

Roswell Park Cancer Institute Corp, Buffalo NY

Investigators

Linked publications, trials & patents

Abstract

Project Summary/Abstract Cancer and health-related community outreach and education efforts progressively rely on digital media to reach and inform important target audiences. To address cancer disparities among Indigenous sexual and gender minorities (SGM), the aim of this proposed project is to adapt the existing framework from the previous MICEO grant (P30CA016056-46S2) and update cancer health messaging with Indigenous SGM specific language, inclusive cancer health education, and we will engage, and package cancer health messaging directly with and for Two-Spirit and Indigenous LGBTQ+ communities as it relates to colorectal and liver cancers. The project titled Films for Indigenous Cancer Health: Engaging Two-Spirit & Indigenous LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, plus other identities) Communities (FICH: 2SLGBTQ+ Communities) will adapt cancer health messaging through short films with Two-Spirit and Indigenous LGBTQ+ social media influencers and icons for use in community-based health centers and is guided by the Transportation-Imagery Model of Narrative Communication. The project will adapt practices from the previous MICEO project to integrate community-based practice, prevention messaging, cancer screening information to increase cancer-based knowledge (specific to colorectal and liver cancers), intent, and behaviors among Indigenous SGM communities. This will be accomplished by collaborative efforts from an NCI-designated cancer center’s Department of Indigenous Cancer Health, Community Outreach and Engagement, Health Communications Resources and Medical Illustrators alongside Indigenous media networks and community-based film companies. Objectives include film creation, hosting screenings at Two-Spirit and Indigenous LGBTQ+ gatherings (powwows, Two-Spirit society events, etc.), panel discussions with film creators and Indigenous influencers/icons, and the embedment of films into the cancer center’s Indigenous outreach, engagement, and prevention digital repository. Evaluative efforts include co-produced films guided by an intertribal community advisory board with Indigenous SGM representation, pre-post surveys on knowledge, attitude, cancer prevention, and screening behaviors. The long-term goal is the continuance of community outreach for Indigenous communities, Indigenous urban centers with sustainable integration into Indigenous and SGM health service delivery systems. Overall, results are expected to increase community-based collaborative efforts through health messaging and serve as a model for Indigenous SGM inclusion in cancer health education practices.