A research project sponsored by the American Cancer Society that involves the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe in South Dakota is revealing the importance of cultural involvement in developing cancer education – particularly using storytelling and visual arts as methods of communication for Native Americans.
The American Cancer Society awarded the $50,000 grant to Dr. Delf Schmidt-Grimminger, a scientist at the Avera Research Institute and professor with the USD Sanford School of Medicine to increase awareness and prevention of cervical cancer among the Northern Plains American Indians. According to Schmidt-Grimminger, Native Americans in the Northern Plains have a cervical cancer rate that is two to three times higher than that of the general population.
The first half of the two-year study is focusing on using community-based meetings and focus groups at Cheyenne River to determine how to make cancer messages culturally appropriate. The second half of the study will involve increasing knowledge about cervical cancer and the importance of screenings through these methods.
According to Schmidt-Grimminger, there is not a one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to cancer education. “Brochures that provide the same basic information will not work in every community. We have to be a lot more sensitive to cultural diversity and incorporate different ideas and traditions to promote health.”
One of the ideas Schmidt-Grimminger is working on involves using art as a way to tell a story about cancer prevention. He has teamed up with Native American artist Chholing Taha of Tacoma, Wash., to create a piece of art that emphasizes the importance of cervical cancer screening and HPV prevention.
“There are 10 hands in the picture; four of them have circles, which represent the HPV virus,” Schmidt-Grimminger said. “The small dots around the virus represent anti-bodies that fight the virus, and promote good health.”
The art can be used as a template for other tribes, with local artists able to fill in their own colors and symbolism to reflect their specific culture and community. Schmidt-Grimminger thinks the art could be used in many venues to educate about screenings – in health clinics, community centers, even in schools. It could also be used with many audiences, including non-Native populations.
“I’d say 70 percent of the success of the project is directly attributed to Native American involvement,” Schmidt-Grimminger said. “The community steers us in the right direction and guides us.”
The American Cancer Society is currently taking applications for research grants at www.cancer.org/research. Eligible applicants can receive up to $1.2 million for a national grant. Prior research experience is not needed and any level of researcher can apply. The American Cancer Society currently funds research projects at 223 leading medical schools, universities, and research institutions across the nation. Much of the research budget is dedicated to funding scientists at the beginning of their research careers. Strong emphasis is placed on training and supporting the next generation of cancer researchers and health care professionals.
“We have a multitude of options available,” said Caryl Range, director of research, Midwest Division American Cancer Society. “There are training grants, so if someone is a nurse or a social worker who wants to get a degree in a specialty area in oncology, they can do that through our training grants.” Grants range from training grants for tuition to post-doctoral fellowship grants, research scholar grants, and more.
Deadline to apply for fall grants is Oct. 15. For more information, call the American Cancer Society at (800) 227-2345.
About the American Cancer Society
At the American Cancer Society, our vision is a world with less cancer and more birthdays. As part of that vision, we are fighting cancer in every community, for every family, to help save lives. We recognize each community has different needs and we’re here to help everyone stay well and get well, to find cures, and to fight back against cancer. For cancer information, contact us at www.cancer.org or (800) 227-2345.
Charlotte Hofer is public relations manager for the American Cancer Society in South Dakota. She is a member of the Native American Journalists Association and her work for the American Cancer Society focuses on cancer education to diverse populations through the media. Contact her at charlotte.hofer@cancer.org.
