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Healthy Dietary Choices and Physical Activity Participation in the Canadian Arctic: Understanding Nunavut Inuit Perspectives on the Barriers and Enablers

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  • Victor O. Akande

    (Department of Health Promotion, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
    Department of Health, Government of Nunavut, Iqaluit, NU X0A 0H0, Canada)

  • Timothy O. Fawehinmi

    (Department of Health, Government of Nunavut, Iqaluit, NU X0A 0H0, Canada)

  • Robert A.C. Ruiter

    (Department of Work & Social Psychology, Faculty of Psychology & Neuroscience, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands)

  • Stef P.J. Kremers

    (Department of Health Promotion, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands)

Abstract

Background: Research shows that unhealthy diets and low physical activity are associated with high rates of obesity-linked chronic diseases amongst Nunavut Inuit. To provide contextual insights and deepen our understanding of the factors that underlie these lifestyle choices, we explored the perspectives of Nunavut Inuit on the barriers and enablers of healthy diets and physical activity participation in the community of Iqaluit. Methods: One-on-one semi-structured photo-elicitation interviews were conducted with 16 participants of 18 years and over (10 women, six men). The interviews uncovered the participants’ perspectives on the factors influencing healthy diets and physical activity in their community. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and uploaded to QSR NVIVO Version 12. Data analysis was achieved using an inductive thematic approach. Results: Six main factors were identified as barriers or enablers to energy balance-related behaviors: cost and affordability of healthy choices; availability of traditional foods and activities; weather conditions and climate change; infrastructure and community resources; social networks of family and friends; and effect of substance use. Conclusion: This study identified six broad areas that should be considered while mapping out interventions to reduce the burden of obesity-related chronic diseases in Nunavut communities.

Suggested Citation

  • Victor O. Akande & Timothy O. Fawehinmi & Robert A.C. Ruiter & Stef P.J. Kremers, 2021. "Healthy Dietary Choices and Physical Activity Participation in the Canadian Arctic: Understanding Nunavut Inuit Perspectives on the Barriers and Enablers," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(3), pages 1-13, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:18:y:2021:i:3:p:940-:d:484898
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Saelens, B.E. & Sallis, J.F. & Black, J.B. & Chen, D., 2003. "Neighborhood-Based Differences in Physical Activity: An Environment Scale Evaluation," American Journal of Public Health, American Public Health Association, vol. 93(9), pages 1552-1558.
    2. Ruth F Hunter & Kayla de la Haye & Jennifer M Murray & Jennifer Badham & Thomas W Valente & Mike Clarke & Frank Kee, 2019. "Social network interventions for health behaviours and outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis," PLOS Medicine, Public Library of Science, vol. 16(9), pages 1-25, September.
    3. Victor O. Akande & Robert A.C. Ruiter & Stef P.J. Kremers, 2019. "Environmental and Motivational Determinants of Physical Activity among Canadian Inuit in the Arctic," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 16(13), pages 1-14, July.
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