Taking a holistic and cultural approach to help increase physical activity and improve overall health
March 8, 2022 | Calgary, Alberta | Public Health Agency of Canada
Research shows that 44% of adults in Canada live with at least one chronic disease, such as heart disease, hypertension, cancer, or diabetes. Many chronic diseases are more prevalent among Indigenous peoples, which often reflects broader inequities they face. Healthy living initiatives that centre and celebrate the strengths, cultural traditions, and resilience of Indigenous peoples can help reduce the risk of chronic disease and support overall health and wellbeing.
Today, in Calgary, at the Miskanawah Community Association, George Chahal, Member of Parliament for Calgary Skyview, Alberta, on behalf of the Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Health, announced an investment of $886,880 to the University of Calgary. This funding will help improve access to health programs for Indigenous women and two-spirit persons in Alberta and Saskatchewan. The project will enable innovative and integrated approaches to promoting healthy living and addressing the common risk factors for chronic disease.
The funding received will help implement the Wolf Trail Program Expansion Project, a holistic, physical activity-based program designed for Indigenous women. In the program, participants come together to experience new types of exercise, learn about nutrition, and share their personal experiences in a safe, supportive, and culturally appropriate environment. The Wolf Trail Program fosters a sense of social and community connection for participants, while supporting healthier lifestyle behaviours, including physical activity, healthy eating and tobacco cessation.
The Government of Canada will continue to work with the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors to promote healthy living and chronic disease prevention while addressing health inequities to ensure that everyone in Canada has the same opportunities to lead a healthy life.
