Jeunes, Environnement Et Sante / Youth, Environment and Health (JES!-YEH!) Pilot Project in Four First Nation Communities in Quebec: Exposure Emerging Chemicals, Dietary Profiles and Health-Related Challenges

摘要

The pilot project Jeunes, Environnement et Sante / Youth, Environment and Health (JES!-YEH!) was conducted in 2015 among children and youth (3-19y, n=198) in collaboration with four First Nation communities in Quebec. Main findings show very low exposure to traditional foods related contaminants (metals and older persistent organic contaminants). However, in some communities, elevated exposure to perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA), bisphenol A, diethylphosphate, monobenzylphtalate and 2,5-dichlorophenol, at higher levels than in the Canadian Health Measure Survey for the same age groups, was found. Food insecurity and overcrowding was important in some communities. Overall, ultra-processed foods and sweet beverages were frequently consumed, and a high prevalence of iron deficiency, anemia, elevated blood manganese and obesity was found. These findings underscore the importance of better understanding the determinants of healthy eating environments in indigenous communities.