In Canada, Indigenous populations are at higher risk for heart disease and stroke, and often have less access to health care as well as information about their risks and how to manage them. The systemic racism that has historically impacted Indigenous communities has trickle-down effects, and Indigenous people still face access barriers to healthcare today.
In this episode, we hear the story of Lynne Marie Sherry, with the help of her daughter Shawnee Kish. After Lynne’s high blood pressure went largely untreated, she experienced a devastating stroke. While recovering, she was unable to access the traditional spiritual care she needed. Dr. Bernice Downey, a medical anthropologist and Indigenous Health Lead in the Faculty of Health Science at McMaster University, discusses the larger systemic issues facing Indigenous communities in the healthcare system. And she finds hope in the ways that Indigenous communities are working together to reclaim their own health and well-being.
To learn more about Indigenous communities and cardiovascular health, visit: https://www.heartandstroke.ca/what-we-do/indigenous-health