Project 182566

Statistics Canada (2005) Food Insecurity Health Reports documents the highest incidence of food insecurity in Canada in Nunavut, where over 50% of Inuit households are believed to experience some degree of food insecurity. This significantly exceeds the Canadian average of 9.2 %. In the community of Igloolik, 64% of Inuit were reported having difficulties in obtaining sufficient food in July 2006 and July 2007. This was the result of several stressors which included: high unemployment, high cost of living, rapid social change, rising costs of hunting and store food, and environmental stresses. In Igloolik and other northern communities, higher prevalence of food insecurity has been reported among female community members. Food insecurity can have serious health implications for women affecting physical, mental and social well-being, and causing increased susceptibility to infection and chronic health afflictions. Research to characterize and understand the vulnerability of Inuit females to food insecurity is essential to promote community well-being and health in a rapidly changing world. Indeed, it has been recognized as a research priority by the Aboriginal Peoples Survey, 2006: Inuit Health and Social Conditions (2008) and Health Canada's (2008) Human Health in a Changing Climate along with Inuit organizations and federal departments. Using a community participatory approach, this research will identify and characterize the key factors determining the vulnerability of Inuit women to food insecurity within the context of significant socio-economic transformation and environmental changes. It will build upon completed baseline climate change food security research in Igloolik, focusing specifically upon female community members. Ultimately, the research outcomes will contribute to work towards enhancing women's adaptive strategies in the face of changing climatic and non-climatic stresses through the identification of local and territorial policy interventions.