2025-06-10T04:34:00Z

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The Canadian Indigenous Nurses Association (CINA) and the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research (OICR) have announced a significant new partnership aimed at integrating Indigenous priorities into cancer research. This collaborative effort focuses on building research capacity within First Nations, Inuit, and Métis (FNIM) communities and increasing their participation in research initiatives. Ultimately, the goal of this partnership is to alleviate the burden of cancer in these populations, which have historically faced disparities in health outcomes.

The partnership recognizes the urgent need to identify and address the unique cancer-related priorities of FNIM populations. This commitment involves supporting the training and advancement of Indigenous individuals who are engaged in cancer research. By doing so, CINA and OICR aim to tackle research questions that are not only relevant but also culturally significant to FNIM communities. This collaborative approach will enhance the understanding and application of Indigenous-specific contexts within cancer research practices.

CINA, recognized as the longest-standing national Indigenous healthcare provider organization in Canada, is uniquely positioned to lead and support research initiatives in collaboration with FNIM communities and organizations. Meanwhile, OICR, as Ontario's premier cancer research institute, is committed to ensuring that the voices and needs of Indigenous communities are included in its research efforts. This commitment to diversity acknowledges and respects the rich cultural values of FNIM populations.

Among the proposed activities of this partnership are the development and support of specialized training and educational opportunities tailored for Indigenous individuals. CINA will also play a pivotal advisory role to OICR, guiding them on matters specifically related to Indigenous cancer research. An open dialogue will be established to ensure that the priorities and concerns of FNIM communities are reflected in the research conducted.

Lea Bill, President of CINA, and Dr. Angeline Letendre, Vice President, expressed their enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “This is truly an exciting time to address the network of cancer research needed for Indigenous people. The opportunity to work with our partners, especially the dedicated team at OICR, signifies the positive impacts of collaboration, focusing on Indigenous Cancer.” They underscored that engaging Indigenous healthcare provider organizations in this unique design will effectively highlight Indigenous indicators while working alongside mainstream stakeholders.

Dr. Christine Williams, Acting President of OICR, shared her excitement about this partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to be partnering with CINA to advance cancer research with and within First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities. Through this connection, we will collaboratively work to reduce the toll of cancer in Indigenous communities and help ensure that Indigenous cancer researchers are leading these efforts.”

Nolan Quinn, Ontario’s Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence, and Security, also commented on the importance of this initiative, saying, “Our province is producing ground-breaking cancer research discoveries that save lives every day. This partnership between the Canadian Indigenous Nurses Association and the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research will significantly advance Indigenous-specific cancer research, enabling First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities to lead healthier and more fulfilling lives.”