Breaking Barriers to Better Native American Health
Native American languages don't have a precise word for "cancer." When
an entire population doesn't know what to call the disease, translating the
symptoms and communicating preventative measures becomes next to impossible.
Sanderson, a Navajo assistant professor of health sciences and applied
indigenous studies, is researching ways to improve such communications through
her work at Northern Arizona University and her involvement in the Partnership
for Native American Cancer Prevention.
with the Hopi Nation, Sanderson is currently discovering which channels of
communication work best to communicate valuable information about the disease.
this point we don't have a cohesive, integrated resource that provides all
these types of information," she says. "We need a way to help
patients and family members navigate treatment options in their first language,
whether it's Navajo or English."
part of her research, Sanderson contributed to a study that evaluated a video
designed to teach Navajo women about breast cancer treatment options. The
research involved showing the video to Navajo women diagnosed with breast
cancer and documenting their reactions.
after viewing the video, the women reported reduced anxiety about treatment and
interest in cancer support groups. Six months later, some of the women said
they sought more information from additional sources because of their new
understanding. Sanderson says because the video was culturally relevant to the
group, it turned out to be an effective teaching tool and enhanced
communication between the patients and their health care providers.
look at the attitudes and beliefs that Native people have, related to
cancer—from there we can design our educational module to that population, age
level, and gender," Sanderson says.
she continues to tap into the knowledge, attitudes and belief systems related
to cancer, Sanderson works, ultimately, to help create a better quality of life
for Native American—and she isn’t doing it alone.
has recruited undergraduate, master’s and first-year medical students to help
with her work, some of whom approach her for her thoughts on additional
research topics in American Indian cancer treatment and prevention. Two Northern
Arizona University undergraduate research scholars joined Sanderson in the
field, visiting Native American communities to assist with focus group
the help of her students, Sanderson strives to link fast-moving laboratory discoveries
with in-need people on American Indian Reservations.
need to have these two disciplines work closely together," Sanderson says.
"That's what I'm hoping I will be able to contribute."
plans to continue helping more Native Americans understand the seriousness of
annual check-ups, cancer screenings, and using available resources—so they can
make informed health care decisions.
Sanderson’s recent research publications
Breast cancer education for Navajo women: A pilot study evaluating a culturally relevant video
Assessing colorectal cancer screening knowledge at tribal fairs
and Sophie Otten's Foundation—committed to improving the health of American
Indians in the Four Corners states—made it possible for two Northern Arizona
University undergraduate students to work alongside Professor Sanderson in this