Developing resources and strategies to support Inuit undergoing cancer treatment in southern Québec.

Description

The Inuit population suffers from high rates of cancer generally and presents a distinct epidemiological profile compared to the mainstream population with very high rates of lung, esophageal, stomach and uterine cancers. Survival rates are also significantly lower for Inuit because of delays in testing, service gaps, the distance required to access treatment, and poor relations between the health care system.

The burden of cancers on the Inuit population is important and experienced by the population through the lens of culture, history and geography. Effectively all people being treated for cancers from Northern Quebec must travel to Montreal for varying amounts of time for treatment. The necessary separation from home communities, family, and supporters is an important dimension of the Inuit experience with cancer.

The objective of the project is to document the Inuit experience of cancer treatment and build a culturally resonant, safe and supportive care services. Supportive services have been shown to improve patient experience and survival rates in diverse populations. A rapid overview of Indigenous cancer care programs in Canada shows well developed programs oriented to First Nations, Métis and Inuit in several provinces but relatively little in Québec.

Research Field

- Santé publique
- Sciences sociales
- Anthropologie médicale
- Soins infirmiers
- Médecine de famille

Research Supervisor

Christopher Fletcher

Research Environment

CR du CHU de Québec-Université Laval et milieu communautaire (Montréal)

This project is being carried out in collaboration with Qavvivik (www.qavvivik.ca), a Montreal-based, Inuit-led non-profit organisation specialising in health. This is a well-established partnership that provides support to students and the research team.

Web Site

Financial Aid Available by Program of Study

Master's Degree in Public Health with thesis

Program description

Financial Aid Available*

Financial Aid Related to Research Project

Information unavailable

Program-Specific Financial Aid

Graduate Studies Awards

Milestone	Amount
Scholarship for the submission of the collaboration plan	$200
Perseverance scholarship	$500
Total	$700

Université Laval: Student Financial Aid

Sources de financement	Montant
Leadership and Comittment Scholarship (Canadians & permanent residents)	$10,000
Citizens of the World Scholarship (International students)	$20,000
Mobility Grant for Out-of-Province Internships or Research Visits (in French)	$1,500 to $3,000
Graduate Scholarships from Granting Agencies	$20,000 to $27,000
Online Directory of Graduate Scholarships (in French)	$500 to $50,000

_{* Amounts shown represent maximum financial aid available. Certain conditions apply. Subject to change without prior notice. For further information, contact sponsoring organizations directly.}

Desired Profile

- Anthropology
- Public and community health
- Nursing

Requirements and Conditions

- Knowledge of the health determinants of health and inequalities experienced by indigenous people
- Experience of working in the North is a major asset
- Sensitivity to the ethical considerations involved in working with indigenous people and organisations
- Comfort working in intercultural and multilingual contexts
- Experience in conducting qualitative interviews and literature reviews
- Ability to work in English
- Willingness to relocate to Montreal for at least part of the project

Required Documentation

- Cover letter
- Curriculum vitæ

Please note - This project is funded by the Unité de soutien SSA. Students will receive financial support in accordance with University norms

Application Deadline

October 10, 2026

Find Out More

Christopher Fletcher
Professeur
Département de médecine sociale et préventive
christopher.fletcher@fmed.ulaval.ca