Publikationer

Research | Forskning - peer review

New approaches to microbiology education are needed to ensure equitable representation in microbiology and to build literacy in microbiology and science broadly. To address this goal, we developed a course held at the collegiate level that uniquely integrated microbiology, Indigenous studies, scienc… New approaches to microbiology education are needed to ensure equitable representation in microbiology and to build literacy in microbiology and science broadly. To address this goal, we developed a course held at the collegiate level that uniquely integrated microbiology, Indigenous studies, science and technology studies, and arts and performance. The course participants included students in 12 majors across science, engineering, humanities, and arts. The different disciplines of the course intersected around Inuit fermented foods as the basis for discussions on fundamental microbiological principles, the scientific method, food sovereignty, and Indigenous peoples’ rights. A diverse array of activities was included, ranging from lectures in microbiology and fermentation, a sauerkraut-making lab, a walk through the Native American contemplative garden, a workshop on Inuit drum making and dance, as well as a performance by Inuit-soul group Pamyua. We propose that a radically interdisciplinary approach and a human rights framework in microbiology education can be a way to enhance microbiology and science literacy for a diverse group of students. Læs mere

Research | Forskning

Langs iskanten og på gammel havis i Avanersuaq jager slædehunde (qimmit) og fangere (piniartut) fortsat side om side i en af de mest krævende jagtformer i Arktis – nanoqfangst. Denne artikel tager læseren med ind i det tætte samarbejde mellem menneske og hund, hvor nanorriutit – specialtrænede isbjø… Langs iskanten og på gammel havis i Avanersuaq jager slædehunde (qimmit) og fangere (piniartut) fortsat side om side i en af de mest krævende jagtformer i Arktis – nanoqfangst. Denne artikel tager læseren med ind i det tætte samarbejde mellem menneske og hund, hvor nanorriutit – specialtrænede isbjørnehunde – udgør kernen i Inughuit-fangstkulturen. Gennem mit feltarbejde og samtaler med traditionsbærere i Qaanaaq og Savissivik undersøger jeg, hvordan disse hunde opdrages og trænes. Samtidig ser jeg på, hvordan klimaforandringer og samfundsudvikling udfordrer denne dybt rodfæstede praksis. Artiklen viser, at nanorriutit er langt mere end fangstredskaber – de er bærere af både viden, vilje og værdighed. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

Mortuary archaeology and bioarchaeology increasingly recognize that the mortuary record indexes not only past societies’ understandings of death but also a wider set of experiences and practices bearing on an extended life course and ontology more broadly. The process of “being-toward-death,” the ex… Mortuary archaeology and bioarchaeology increasingly recognize that the mortuary record indexes not only past societies’ understandings of death but also a wider set of experiences and practices bearing on an extended life course and ontology more broadly. The process of “being-toward-death,” the experience of dying, a community’s participation in this process and subsequent handling of the corpse, the ongoing relations of the living with the material remains, the memory traces of the deceased in a burial cairn, and the local biologies illuminated by bioarchaeology, all constitute elements of a “necrontology” that was a core component of the culturally figured life course. Here the mortuary records from two parts of the Inuit world—northern Labrador and Southwest Greenland—are characterized in terms of their implications for such a necrontology of Inuit groups. While there appear to have been pan-regional patterns, idiosyncratic mortuary treatments also occur, warranting that archaeologists revisit, in appropriately community-sensitive ways, a record increasingly threatened by climate change. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

This article examines the conceptualization of nation-building in Greenland, challenging conventional views on sovereignty and suggesting an imminent emergence of an alternate governance model in the Arctic region. Drawing on the decoloniality perspective, we explore the Inuit myth, which suggests a… This article examines the conceptualization of nation-building in Greenland, challenging conventional views on sovereignty and suggesting an imminent emergence of an alternate governance model in the Arctic region. Drawing on the decoloniality perspective, we explore the Inuit myth, which suggests a unique connection of the Inuit to the Arctic environment and asserts their status as natural stewards of the region with special rights based on their cultural and political identity. We argue that this understanding of sovereignty has important implications not only for its departure from conventional Western notions of state formation but also for its potential to create alternative governance structures that do not reinforce existing political hegemonies from the “West”. We further analyze how the legacy of colonialism in Greenland has impacted power and gender relations in the region and has fueled a distinctive sense of nationalism that differs from those seen in the West. The article discusses how the Inuit Circumpolar Council (ICC) is playing a major role in promoting an alternative political legitimacy model against the conventional approach of nation-building. We note that the ICC depends on the maintenance of political myths which have evolved over time. We conclude by suggesting that conventional perspectives on state formation must be revised to incorporate the historical experiences and knowledge of Indigenous peoples, and that further exploration of alternative governance structures is needed. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

Since 1993, regular population health surveys in Greenland have supported and monitored the public health strategy of Greenland and have monitored cardiometabolic and lung diseases. The most recent of these surveys included 2539 persons aged 15+ from 20 communities spread over the whole country. The… Since 1993, regular population health surveys in Greenland have supported and monitored the public health strategy of Greenland and have monitored cardiometabolic and lung diseases. The most recent of these surveys included 2539 persons aged 15+ from 20 communities spread over the whole country. The survey instruments included personal interviews, self-administered questionnaires, blood sampling, anthropometric measurements, blood pressure, ECG, oral glucose test, pulmonary function, hand grip strength and chair stand test. Blood samples were analysed for glucose, glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), insulin, incretin hormones, cholesterol, kidney function, fatty acids in erythrocyte membranes and mercury, urine for albumin-creatinine ratio, and aliquots were stored at −80°C for future use. Data were furthermore collected for studies of the gut microbiome and diabetes complications. Survey participants were followed up with register data. The potential of the study is to contribute to the continued monitoring of risk factors and health conditions as part of Greenland’s public health strategy and to study the epidemiology of cardiometabolic diseases and other chronic diseases and behavioural risk factors. The next population health survey is planned for 2024. The emphasis of the article is on the methods of the study and results will be presented in other publications. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

Hyperthyroidism was frequent among Inuit and the occurrence of hypothyroidism was low. The pattern of hyper- and hypothyroidism among Greenlandic Inuit with adequate iodine intake was comparable with those seen in populations with iodine deficiency. Inuit may thus have adapted to excessive iodine in… Hyperthyroidism was frequent among Inuit and the occurrence of hypothyroidism was low. The pattern of hyper- and hypothyroidism among Greenlandic Inuit with adequate iodine intake was comparable with those seen in populations with iodine deficiency. Inuit may thus have adapted to excessive iodine intake over centuries, causing a need for a higher iodine intake to prevent iodine deficiency disorders. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

The foods we eat contain microorganisms that we ingest alongside the food. Industrialized food systems offer great advantages from a safety point of view, but have also been accused of depleting the diversity of the human microbiota with negative implications for human health. In contrast, artisanal… The foods we eat contain microorganisms that we ingest alongside the food. Industrialized food systems offer great advantages from a safety point of view, but have also been accused of depleting the diversity of the human microbiota with negative implications for human health. In contrast, artisanal traditional foods are potential sources of a diverse food microbiota. Traditional foods of the Greenlandic Inuit are comprised of animal-sourced foods prepared in the natural environment and are often consumed raw. These foods, some of which are on the verge of extinction, have not previously been microbiologically character- ized. We mapped the microbiota of foods stemming from traditional Inuit land-based hunting activities. The foods included in the current study are dried muskox and caribou meat, cari- bou rumen and intestinal content as well as larval parasites from caribou hides, all traditional Inuit foods. This study shows that traditional drying methods are efficient for limiting micro- bial growth through desiccation. The results also show the rumen content of the caribou to be a highly diverse source of microbes with potential for degradation of plants. Finally, a number of parasites were shown to be included in the biodiversity of the assessed traditional foods. Taken together, the results map out a diverse source of ingested microbes and para- sites that originate from the natural environment. These results have implications for under- standing the nature-sourced traditional Inuit diet, which is in contrast to current day diet recommendations as well as modern industrialized food systems. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

The practices of preparing traditional foods in the Arctic are rapidly disappearing. Traditional foods of the Arctic represent a rarity among food studies in that they are meat-sourced and prepared in non-industrial settings. These foods, generally consumed without any heating step prior to consumpt… The practices of preparing traditional foods in the Arctic are rapidly disappearing. Traditional foods of the Arctic represent a rarity among food studies in that they are meat-sourced and prepared in non-industrial settings. These foods, generally consumed without any heating step prior to consumption, harbor an insofar undescribed microbiome. The food-associated microbiomes have implications not only with respect to disease risk, but might also positively influence host health by transferring a yet unknown diversity of live microbes to the human gastrointestinal tract. Here we report the first study of the microbial composition of traditionally dried fish prepared according to Greenlandic traditions and their industrial counterparts. We show that dried capelin prepared according to traditional methods have microbiomes clearly different from industrially prepared capelin, which also have more homogenous microbiomes than traditionally prepared capelin. Interestingly, the locally preferred type of traditionally dried capelin, described to be tastier than other traditionally dried capelin, contains bacteria that potentially confer distinct taste. Finally, we show that dried cod have comparably more homogenous microbiomes when compared to capelin and that in general, the environment of drying is a major determinant of the microbial composition of these indigenous food products. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

Ca homoeostasis is important to human health and tightly controlled by powerful hormonal mechanisms that display ethnic variation. Ethnic variations could occur also in Arctic populations where the traditional Inuit diet is low in Ca and sun exposure is limited. We aimed to assess factors important… Ca homoeostasis is important to human health and tightly controlled by powerful hormonal mechanisms that display ethnic variation. Ethnic variations could occur also in Arctic populations where the traditional Inuit diet is low in Ca and sun exposure is limited. We aimed to assess factors important to parathyroid hormone (PTH) and Ca in serum in Arctic populations. We included Inuit and Caucasians aged 50–69 years living in the capital city in West or in rural East Greenland. Lifestyle factors were assessed by questionnaires. The intake of Inuit diet was assessed from a FFQ. 25-Hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD2 and 25OHD3) levels were measured in serum as was albumin, Ca and PTH. The participation rate was 95 %, with 101 Caucasians and 434 Inuit. Median serum 25OHD (99·7 % was 25OHD3) in Caucasians/Inuit was 42/64 nmol/l (25, 75 percentiles 25, 54/51, 81) (P<0·001). Total Ca in serum was 2·33/2·29 mmol/l (25, 75 percentiles 2·26, 2·38/2·21, 2·36) (P=0·01) and PTH was 2·7/2·2 pmol/l (25, 75 percentiles 2·2, 4·1/1·7, 2·7) (P<0·001). The 69/97 Caucasians/Inuit with serum 25OHD <50 nmol/l differed in PTH (P=0·001) that rose with lower 25OHD levels in Caucasians, whereas this was not the case in Inuit. Ethnic origin influenced PTH (β=0·27, P<0·001) and Ca (β=0·22, P<0·001) in multivariate linear regression models after adjustment for age, sex, BMI, smoking, alcohol and diet. In conclusion, ethnic origin influenced PTH, PTH response to low vitamin D levels and Ca levels in populations in Greenland. Recommendations are to evaluate mechanisms underlying the ethnic influence on Ca homoeostasis and to assess the impact of transition in dietary habits on Ca homoeostasis and skeletal health in Arctic populations. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

We previously showed that a common genetic variant leads to a remarkably increased risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D) in the small and historically isolated Greenlandic population. Motivated by this, we aimed at discovering novel genetic determinants for glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C) and at estimating the… We previously showed that a common genetic variant leads to a remarkably increased risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D) in the small and historically isolated Greenlandic population. Motivated by this, we aimed at discovering novel genetic determinants for glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C) and at estimating the effect of known HbA1C-associated loci in the Greenlandic population. We analyzed genotype data from 4049 Greenlanders generated using the Illumina Cardio-Metabochip. We performed the discovery association analysis by an additive linear mixed model. To estimate the effect of known HbA1C-associated loci, we modeled the effect in the European and Inuit ancestry proportions of the Greenlandic genome (EAPGG and IAPGG, respectively). After correcting for multiple testing, we found no novel significant associations. When we investigated loci known to associate with HbA1C levels, we found that the lead variant in the GCK locus associated significantly with HbA1C levels in the IAPGG (PIAPGG=4.8×10−6,βIAPGG=0.13SD). Furthermore, for 10 of 15 known HbA1C loci, the effects in IAPGG were similar to the previously reported effects. Interestingly, the ANK1 locus showed a statistically significant ancestral population differential effect, with opposing directions of effect in the two ancestral populations. In conclusion, we found only 1 of the 15 known HbA1C loci to be significantly associated with HbA1C levels in the IAPGG and that two-thirds of the loci showed similar effects in Inuit as previously found in European and East Asian populations. Our results shed light on the genetic effects across ethnicities. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

The purpose of the article is to compare different indicators of social position as measures of social inequality in health in a population sample from an indigenous arctic people, the Inuit in Greenland. Data was collected during 2005–2015 and consisted of information from 3967 adult Inuit from tow… The purpose of the article is to compare different indicators of social position as measures of social inequality in health in a population sample from an indigenous arctic people, the Inuit in Greenland. Data was collected during 2005–2015 and consisted of information from 3967 adult Inuit from towns and villages in all parts of Greenland. Social inequalities for smoking and central obesity were analysed in relation to seven indicators of social disparity in four dimensions, i.e. education and employment, economic status, sociocultural position, and place of residence. For each indicator we calculated age-adjusted prevalence by social group, rate ratio and the concentration index. The indicators were correlated with Pearson’s r ranging from 0.24 to 0.82. Concentration indices ranged from 0.01 to 0.17. We could not conclude that one indicator was superior to others. Most of the indicators were traditional socioeconomic indicators used extensively in research in western countries and these seemed to be useful among the Inuit too, in particular household assets and job. Two sociocultural indicators developed for use among the Inuit and which included parameters specific to the indigenous peoples in the transition from a traditional to a modern life style proved to be equally useful but not superior to the traditional socioeconomic indicators. The choice of indicator must depend on what it is realistic to collect in the actual research setting and the use of more than one indicator is recommended. It is suggested to further develop culture specific indicators of social position for indigenous peoples. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

Greenland is a country in transition from a colonial past with subsistence hunting and fishing to an urban Nordic welfare state. Epidemiological transition from infectious to chronic diseases has been evident since the 1950s. Ninety percent of the population is Inuit. We studied three public health… Greenland is a country in transition from a colonial past with subsistence hunting and fishing to an urban Nordic welfare state. Epidemiological transition from infectious to chronic diseases has been evident since the 1950s. Ninety percent of the population is Inuit. We studied three public health issues based on published literature, namely adverse childhood experiences, addictive behavior, and suicide; diet and obesity; and smoking. Alcohol consumption was high in the 1970s and 1980s with accompanying family and social disruption. This is still a cause of poor mental health and suicides in the generations most affected. The diet is changing from a traditional diet of fish and marine mammals to imported food including food items rich in sugar and fat from domestic animals, and the level of physical activity is decreasing with an ensuing epidemic rise in obesity. The prevalence of smoking is high at around 60% among both men and women and is only slowly decreasing. Smoking shows large social variation, and tobacco-related diseases are widespread. The diseases and conditions outlined above all contribute towards a low life expectancy at birth—69 years for men and 74 years for women in 2011–2015—compared with 78 and 84 years for men and women, respectively, on average in the European countries. The translation of government public health programs into local activities needs strengthening, and it must be realized that the improvement of public health is a long-term process. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

Background and aims: Low levels of vitamin D are suspected to be a risk factor for cardiovascular disease and atherosclerosis. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of subclinical atherosclerosis among Inuit in Greenland, and to evaluate the association with vitamin D status. We hypothe… Background and aims: Low levels of vitamin D are suspected to be a risk factor for cardiovascular disease and atherosclerosis. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of subclinical atherosclerosis among Inuit in Greenland, and to evaluate the association with vitamin D status. We hypothesized that low vitamin D status could be associated with higher carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) as a marker of atherosclerosis. Methods: 756 adults from the Inuit Health in Transition (IHIT) study carried out in Greenland in the period 2005–2010 were included. A blood sample donated in 1987 was available for a sub-sample of 102 individuals. Serum 25(OH)D3 from the IHIT study and the 1987 survey was used as a measure of vitamin D status. IMT measurements were conducted by ultrasound scanning. The prevalence of atherosclerosis was estimated, and the association between serum 25(OH)D3 and IMT measurements was examined by linear regression. Results: The overall prevalence of subclinical atherosclerosis was 20.1% (n = 152). The linear regression analyses indicated a weak positive association between serum 25(OH)D3 level and IMT measurements from the IHIT study, though not statistically significant after adjustment for potential confounders (β = 0.35% per 10 nmoL/L 25(OH)D3, p = 0.06). Linear regression analyses of the association between serum 25(OH)D3 level in the 1987 survey and IMT measurements also indicated a positive, though not statistically significant, association after adjustment (β = 0.07% per 10 nmoL/L 25(OH)D3, p = 0.86). Conclusions: Our findings did not support the hypothesis of an association between low vitamin D levels and risk of atherosclerosis. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

Aims/hypothesis: In a recent study using a standard additive genetic model, we identified a TBC1D4 loss-of-function variant with a large recessive impact on risk of type 2 diabetes in Greenlanders. The aim of the current study was to identify additional genetic variation underlying type 2 diabetes u… Aims/hypothesis: In a recent study using a standard additive genetic model, we identified a TBC1D4 loss-of-function variant with a large recessive impact on risk of type 2 diabetes in Greenlanders. The aim of the current study was to identify additional genetic variation underlying type 2 diabetes using a recessive genetic model, thereby increasing the power to detect variants with recessive effects. Methods: We investigated three cohorts of Greenlanders (B99, n = 1401; IHIT, n = 3115; and BBH, n = 547), which were genotyped using Illumina MetaboChip. Of the 4674 genotyped individuals passing quality control, 4648 had phenotype data available, and type 2 diabetes association analyses were performed for 317 individuals with type 2 diabetes and 2631 participants with normal glucose tolerance. Statistical association analyses were performed using a linear mixed model. Results: Using a recessive genetic model, we identified two novel loci associated with type 2 diabetes in Greenlanders, namely rs870992 in ITGA1 on chromosome 5 (OR 2.79, p = 1.8 × 10−8), and rs16993330 upstream of LARGE1 on chromosome 22 (OR 3.52, p = 1.3 × 10−7). The LARGE1 variant did not reach the conventional threshold for genome-wide significance (p < 5 × 10−8) but did withstand a study-wide Bonferroni-corrected significance threshold. Both variants were common in Greenlanders, with minor allele frequencies of 23% and 16%, respectively, and were estimated to have large recessive effects on risk of type 2 diabetes in Greenlanders, compared with additively inherited variants previously observed in European populations. Conclusions/interpretation: We demonstrate the value of using a recessive genetic model in a historically small and isolated population to identify genetic risk variants. Our findings give new insights into the genetic architecture of type 2 diabetes, and further support the existence of high-effect genetic risk factors of potential clinical relevance, particularly in isolated populations. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

Aim: Previous studies have found high rates of stunted linear growth in Greenlandic children. We measured growth patterns in Greenland and compared them with international growth charts. Methods: The study cohort comprised 279 healthy children aged 6–10 years in 2012. They participated in two pregn… Aim: Previous studies have found high rates of stunted linear growth in Greenlandic children. We measured growth patterns in Greenland and compared them with international growth charts. Methods: The study cohort comprised 279 healthy children aged 6–10 years in 2012. They participated in two pregnancy and birth cohorts in Greenland and longitudinal growth data as birth was extracted from their medical records. Growth reference ranges were estimated with the lambda‐mu‐sigma (LMS) method and compared with growth charts from Denmark and the World Health Organization (WHO). Results: The children's mean length, weight and head circumference were significantly larger than the WHO growth charts (p < 0.001). We found that 21–28% of the children aged zero to one years exceeded the WHO growth chart for length by more than two standard deviations. For weight and head circumference, 9–16% of the children aged 0–10 years and 9–11% of the children from zero to two years exceeded the WHO charts by more than two standard deviations. The Danish references were exceeded to a lesser degree. Conclusion: This study showed that the growth of Greenlandic children up to 10 years was no longer stunted. Major determining factors suggested are genetic admixture, maternal overweight, changes in nutrition and improved health. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

Background: Studies have found mercury to be associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD), however, primarily in populations with low exposure. The highest levels, and variations in the levels, of whole blood mercury (WBM) worldwide have been found in Greenland. We prospectively assessed the associa… Background: Studies have found mercury to be associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD), however, primarily in populations with low exposure. The highest levels, and variations in the levels, of whole blood mercury (WBM) worldwide have been found in Greenland. We prospectively assessed the association between WBM and the risk of developing CVD in the Greenlandic population. Methods: We assessed the effects of WBM levels on incident CVD among 3083 Greenlandic Inuit, participating in a population-based cohort study conducted from 2005 to 2010. WBM was measured at baseline. Participants were followed in the National Patient Registries for Denmark and Greenland and in the causes of death register for CVD events from inclusion in the study until CVD event, emigration, death or end of follow-up (30/9–2013). Using Cox regression analyses, we calculated the incidence rates and the hazard ratio of CVD events according to WBM levels. Potential interactions with sex were also investigated. Results: The highest levels of WBM were found in men, who had a significantly higher median level (19 μg/L (IQR:1–44)), compared with women (15 μg/L (IQR: 1–32), (p < 0.001)). The crude hazard ratio (HR) for incident CVD was 1.00 (95% CI 1.00–1.00) for 5 µg/l increase in WBM. After adjusting for several potential confounders, there was still no association between WBM and incident CVD (HR 0.99; 95%CI:0.99–1.00). We found no interactions with sex. Conclusions: In a population with high levels of WBM, we found no association between WBM and the risk of developing CVD in Greenland. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

Previously, head and neck cancer (HNC) patients in Greenland have had significant diagnostic delay and poor survival rates. From 2005-2009 several initiatives have been made to ensure faster diagnosis and better survival. The aim of this study was to compare the prognosis before and after these init… Previously, head and neck cancer (HNC) patients in Greenland have had significant diagnostic delay and poor survival rates. From 2005-2009 several initiatives have been made to ensure faster diagnosis and better survival. The aim of this study was to compare the prognosis before and after these initiatives were introduced. All Greenlandic patients diagnosed with HNC between 2005 and 2012 were included. Data were retrieved from medical records and national databases and compared with the period 1994-2003. A total of 98 patients were identified. Diagnostic delay was significantly lower compared to the period 1994–2004 (p=0.048). The 3-year overall survival was 56% for all HNC and 47% for nasopharyngeal carcinomas. We found that patients with HNC between 1994 and 2003 had a higher risk of death from all reasons compared with the period 2005–2012 (HR 2.17; CI 1.46–3.23) after adjustments for stage and diagnostic delay. Patients with head HNC in Greenland from 2005-2012 were diagnosed earlier and had a better overall survival compared to the period 1994–2003. The change in survival is more likely to be due to improvement in treatment rather than the initiated interventions. Although survival has improved in Greenland, demographic problems and lack of specialists remain a challenge. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

Diabetes mellitus is a large and growing worldwide health issue. Prior to this publication, a direct comparison of the prevalence of persons treated with anti-diabetic medicine in Greenland and Denmark has not been found. Therefore, the aim of this study is to estimate and compare the age- and gende… Diabetes mellitus is a large and growing worldwide health issue. Prior to this publication, a direct comparison of the prevalence of persons treated with anti-diabetic medicine in Greenland and Denmark has not been found. Therefore, the aim of this study is to estimate and compare the age- and gender-specific prevalence of patients treated with anti-diabetic medicine comparing Greenland and Denmark. The study was performed as a cross-sectional register study using data from population and medical registers in Greenland and Denmark. A total of 784 Greenlandic and 215,580 Danish patients treated with anti-diabetic medicine were included. The prevalence of patients aged 20–79 years treated with anti-diabetic medicine in Greenland was 2.6% (95% CI 2.4–2.8), much lower (p < 0.001) compared to Denmark with 5.2% (95% CI 5.2–5.2). The difference was less pronounced after excluding those treated with insulin and women below 45 years treated with metformin. In conclusion, this study showed a lower prevalence of patients treated with anti-diabetic medicine in Greenland than Denmark. The main reason may be a much higher prevalence of undiagnosed diabetes in Greenland, particularly among the middle-aged. Differences in awareness of diabetes and access to continued primary healthcare may be contributing factors. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a serious condition associated to both maternal and offspring complications. Yet, no globally accepted consensus exists on how to test and diagnose GDM. In Greenland, the clinical criteria for testing and diagnosing GDM are adapted from Danish guidelines. The a… Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a serious condition associated to both maternal and offspring complications. Yet, no globally accepted consensus exists on how to test and diagnose GDM. In Greenland, the clinical criteria for testing and diagnosing GDM are adapted from Danish guidelines. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of GDM among Greenlanders using both the current clinical GDM criteria and the recent WHO 2013 criteria and, further, to study the association between GDM, pre-pregnant overweight or obesity and macrosomia. A cross-sectional study of all 450 Greenlandic women who gave birth to a singleton in Nuuk within 1 year was performed. Based on an oral glucose tolerance test measuring capillary whole blood glucose, 119 women were categorised as having clinical GDM, WHO 2013 GDM or not GDM. Macrosomia defined as birth weight above 4,000 g was used as outcome variable. The prevalence of clinical GDM and WHO 2013 GDM was 0.4% (95% CI; 0–1.1) and 6.9% (95% CI; 4.5–9.2). WHO 2013 GDM, fasting blood glucose, pre-pregnant maternal overweight and obesity were associated with macrosomia. WHO 2013 GDM criteria were superior to clinical criteria in predicting macrosomia indicating that it may be time to consider the diagnostic strategy used in Greenland. Pre-pregnant overweight may also need more intensified lifestyle-intervention. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

Aim: The objective of this study was to estimate and compare between Greenlanders and non-Greenlanders living in Nuuk the proportion of patients with type 2 diabetes with microvascular complications. Methods: This study was performed as a cross-sectional register study based on information in the E… Aim: The objective of this study was to estimate and compare between Greenlanders and non-Greenlanders living in Nuuk the proportion of patients with type 2 diabetes with microvascular complications. Methods: This study was performed as a cross-sectional register study based on information in the Electronic Medical Record (EMR). All patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and with permanent addresses in Nuuk were included. Patients born in Greenland were considered to be Greenlanders, while patients born outside Greenland were considered as non-Greenlanders. Proportions of patients with retinopathy, microalbuminuria, nephropathy and neuropathy were estimated based on information from the EMR. Results: A total of 393 patients (295 Greenlanders and 98 non-Greenlanders) were included. In total 83.0% of all patients have been screened for retinopathy, while 66.4% were screened for microalbuminuria and 64.6% for neuropathy within a two year period. The most frequent microvascular complication was neuropathy, which was observed among half (49.6%) of all patients followed by microalbuminuria (28.4%), retinopathy (10.7%) and nephropathy (7.3%). Retinopathy was observed among 21.4% of the non-Greenlanders compared to only 7.0% of the Greenlanders (p = .001). Microalbuminuria was also observed more frequently (p = .047) among non-Greenlanders (37.5%) than among Greenlanders (24.9%). Conclusion: Greenlanders seem to be less prone to especially retinopathy than are non-Greenlanders. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. In Greenland, valid estimates of prevalence and incidence of CVD do not exist and can only be calculated if diagnoses of CVD in the Greenlandic Hospital Discharge Register (GHDR) are correct. Diagnoses of CVD in GHDR have… Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. In Greenland, valid estimates of prevalence and incidence of CVD do not exist and can only be calculated if diagnoses of CVD in the Greenlandic Hospital Discharge Register (GHDR) are correct. Diagnoses of CVD in GHDR have not previously been validated specifically. The objective of the study was to validate diagnoses of CVD in GHDR. The study was conducted as a validation study with primary investigator comparing information in GHDR with information in medical records. Diagnoses in GHDR were considered correct and thus valid if they matched the diagnoses or the medical information in the medical records. A total of 432 online accessible medical records with a cardiovascular diagnosis according to GHDR from Queen Ingrid’s Hospital from 2001 to 2013 (n=291) and from local health care centres from 2007 to 2013 (n=141) were reviewed. Ninety-nine and ninety-two percent of discharge diagnosis in GHDR from Queen Ingrid’s Hospital and local health care centres were correct in comparison with diagnoses in the medical record indicating valid registration practice. The correctness of cardiovascular diagnoses in GHDR was considered high in terms of acceptable agreement between medical records and diagnoses in GHDR. Cardiovascular diagnoses are valid for epidemiological use. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

Background: During the last decades, social and life-style changes in Greenland have led to an increase in the incidence of several non-communicable diseases. Our aim is to present the cancer incidence and mortality in Greenland and compare the results with the other Nordic countries. Methods: The… Background: During the last decades, social and life-style changes in Greenland have led to an increase in the incidence of several non-communicable diseases. Our aim is to present the cancer incidence and mortality in Greenland and compare the results with the other Nordic countries. Methods: The data stems from The Danish Cancer Registry and The Danish Register of Causes of Death. Comparable data on cancer incidence and mortality in Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, and Greenland are available through collaboration between Nordic Cancer Registries (NORDCAN). We included all individuals residing in Greenland and diagnosed with or died of a cancer from 1983 to 2014. Findings: The total number of cancer cases in Greenland for the study period was 4716 and there were 3231 cancer deaths. Respiratory and gastrointestinal cancers had the highest incidence as well as mortality in Greenland for the entire time period and for both sexes. Compared to the other Nordic countries, Greenland had significantly higher incidence and mortality rates for several cancers. Cancer of the lip, oral cavity, and pharynx, respiratory cancer, and cancer of unknown sites had the highest incidence rate ratios (2.3–3.9) and mortality rate ratios (2.7–9.9) for both sexes. The time trend from 1983 to 2014 showed a significant increase in cancer incidence in Greenland with nearly the same incidence level as the other Nordic countries. While the cancer mortality decreased in the other Nordic countries during the time period studied, there was no change in the cancer-specific mortality in Greenland. Interpretations: The trends in cancer incidence and mortality in Greenland compared to the other Nordic countries have not been reported earlier. These data underline a need to focus on cancer-specific mortality in Greenland and prevention of high-incidence cancers related to well-established risk factors. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

The Arctic populations have high blood concentrations of persistent organic pollutants (POPs). Exposure to POPs was related to adverse health effects e.g. immune, neurological and reproductive systems. This study investigates associations between serum POP levels and haematological markers in Greenl… The Arctic populations have high blood concentrations of persistent organic pollutants (POPs). Exposure to POPs was related to adverse health effects e.g. immune, neurological and reproductive systems. This study investigates associations between serum POP levels and haematological markers in Greenlandic pregnant women. This cross-sectional study included 189 women enrolled in 2010–2011 at the Greenlandic West coast by the inclusion criteria ≥18 years of age and had lived for 50% or more of their life in Greenland. The associations between the sum of the POP variables polychlorinated biphenyls (sumPCBs), organochlorine pesticides (sumOCPs), perfluoroalkylated substances (sumPFASs) and 24 haematological markers were analysed using linear regression adjusted for age, pre-pregnancy BMI, parity, gestation week, plasma-cotinine and alcohol intake. It showed a significantly inverse association between several haematological markers (eosinophil, lymphocyte, neutrophil and white blood cells) and sumPCBs, sumOCPs and sumPFASs. In addition, the monocyte, mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration, plateletcrit and platelet count markers were significantly inversely associated with sumPFASs, but the haematocrit and mean erythrocyte corpuscular volume were positively associated with sumPFASs. In conclusion, exposure to POPs influenced several haematological markers, especially cell count parameters, suggesting immunosuppressive potential of POPs in Greenlandic pregnant women. The data need further investigations. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

Determinants of an integrated public health approach: the implementation process of Greenland’s second public health program

Background: Greenland struggles with a high prevalence of smoking, alcohol and drug abuse. In response to the increasing need for preventive initiatives, the first public health program Inuuneritta was introduced in 2007. Internationally, frameworks focus primarily on the implementation of a single,… Background: Greenland struggles with a high prevalence of smoking, alcohol and drug abuse. In response to the increasing need for preventive initiatives, the first public health program Inuuneritta was introduced in 2007. Internationally, frameworks focus primarily on the implementation of a single, well-described intervention or program. However, with the increasing need and emergence of more holistic, integrated approaches, a need for research investigating the process of policy implementation from launch to action arises. This paper aims to augment the empirical evidence on the implementation of integrated health promotion programs within a governmental setting using the case of Inuuneritta II. In this study, the constraining and enabling determinants of the implementation processes within and across levels and sectors were examined. Methods: Qualitative methods with a transdisciplinary approach were applied. Data collection consisted of six phases with different qualitative methods applied to gain a comprehensive overview and understanding of Inuuneritta II’s implementation process. These methods included: observations and focus group discussions at the community health worker (CHW) conference, telephone interviews, document analysis, and a workshop on results dissemination. Results: Enabling determinants influencing the implementation process of Inuuneritta II positively were high motivation among adopters, local prevention committees supporting community health workers, and the initiation of the central prevention committee. In contrast, constraining determinants were ambiguous program aims, high turnovers, siloed budgets and work environments, and an inconsistent and neglected central prevention committee. Conclusion: Inuuneritta II provided a substantial framework for an integrated health policy approach. However, having a holistic and comprehensive program enabling an integrated approach is not sufficient. Inuuneritta II’s integrated approach does not harmonise with the government’s inflexible organisational structure resulting in insufficient implementation. Læs mere

Consultancy | Rådgivning

A scoping review: Well-being among indigenous children and youth in the Arctic – with a focus on Sami and Greenland Inuit

Children and young people from the Inuit and Sami populations in the Nordic countries can be identified as a vulnerable group. Young Sami and Inuit experience a higher degree of violence, abuse, suicidal thoughts and suicide rates compared to their peers in the majority populations in the Nordic cou… Children and young people from the Inuit and Sami populations in the Nordic countries can be identified as a vulnerable group. Young Sami and Inuit experience a higher degree of violence, abuse, suicidal thoughts and suicide rates compared to their peers in the majority populations in the Nordic countries. Their living conditions are in most cases influenced by a limited access to welfare benefits such as the healthcare system, social services and educational opportunities. Career prospects in the Arctic region are also narrow compared to the more densely populated and central regions in the Nordic countries. In order to understand and act upon the challenges the populations face, an in-depth and systematic review of the existing literature and experiences of children’s and youth’s well-being and their existing living conditions in the Arctic Region is essential. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

Artiklen peger – med fokus på børn og unge – på potentielle udviklingsmuligheder for community-baseret socialt arbejde i Grønland. Der er i øjeblikket et øget fokus på at vende interessen hen mod strukturelle og lokalsamfunds-orienterede metoder i det sociale arbejde. Nogle af disse metoder henter i… Artiklen peger – med fokus på børn og unge – på potentielle udviklingsmuligheder for community-baseret socialt arbejde i Grønland. Der er i øjeblikket et øget fokus på at vende interessen hen mod strukturelle og lokalsamfunds-orienterede metoder i det sociale arbejde. Nogle af disse metoder henter inspiration i oprindelige folks viden om og former for social støtte. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

Bogen beskriver og diskuterer de historiske og videnskabsteoretiske baggrunde for at udforme en refleksiv baseline for interventioner, der støtter og styrker social resiliens i to byer i Kalaallit Nunaat/Grønland. Det vises og dokumenteres, hvordan en refleksiv baseline kan tilbyde en måde at forske… Bogen beskriver og diskuterer de historiske og videnskabsteoretiske baggrunde for at udforme en refleksiv baseline for interventioner, der støtter og styrker social resiliens i to byer i Kalaallit Nunaat/Grønland. Det vises og dokumenteres, hvordan en refleksiv baseline kan tilbyde en måde at forske på, der aktivt styrker sociale ressourcer og derved virker tranformativ i sin udførelse. Projektets forsknings-del, som specifikt omtales i kapitlerne 2 og 3, er central for en forståelse af hele projektet, er udført af professor, Peter Berliner og er blevet til på baggrund af Peter Berliners mange års forskning i grønlandske forhold og projekt Siunissaq´s konkrete aktiviteter og udførelse. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

Objective: To review the context of food insecurity in Greenlandic children, to review and compare the outcomes related to food insecurity in Greenlandic children, in other Arctic child populations and in other western societies, and to explore the measure used by the Health Behaviour in School-aged… Objective: To review the context of food insecurity in Greenlandic children, to review and compare the outcomes related to food insecurity in Greenlandic children, in other Arctic child populations and in other western societies, and to explore the measure used by the Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) study. Design: The study includes literature reviews, focus group interviews with children and analyses of data from the HBSC study. HBSC is an international cross-national school-based survey on child and adolescent health and health behaviour in the age groups 11, 13 and 15 years and performed in more than 40 countries. The item on food insecurity is “Some young people go to school or to bed hungry because there is not enough food in the home. How often does this happen to you?” (with the response options: “Always”, “Often”, “Sometimes”, or “Never”). Results: The context to food security among Inuit in Arctic regions was found to be very similar and connected to a westernization of the diet and contamination of the traditional diet. The major challenges are contamination, economic access to healthy food and socio-demographic differences in having a healthy diet. The literature on outcomes related to food insecurity in children in Western societies was reviewed and grouped based on 8 domains. Using data from the Greenlandic HBSC data from 2010, the item on food security showed negative associations on central items in all these domains. Focus group interviews with children revealed face and content validity of the HBSC item. Conclusion: Triangulation of the above-mentioned findings indicates that the HBSC measure of food shortage is a reliable indicator of food insecurity in Greenlandic schoolchildren. However, more research is needed, especially on explanatory and mediating factors. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

Artiklen beskriver tre aspekter ved social, kropslig og rumslig læring og belyser disse ud fra data fra MATU projektet i Grønland.

Research | Forskning

This dissertation concerns childbirth and its position within the Greenlandic society, taking a holistic health promotional view of the perinatal period and focusing on the importance of the women, the children, their families and the local community as equal pieces of a whole. The aim of the disse… This dissertation concerns childbirth and its position within the Greenlandic society, taking a holistic health promotional view of the perinatal period and focusing on the importance of the women, the children, their families and the local community as equal pieces of a whole. The aim of the dissertation is to present new concepts and knowledge concerning the health of the perinatal family in Greenland. It seeks to present childbirth and its position within the Greenlandic society and to link the changes in choice related to birth and place of birth with the concepts of family, attitude and community structure. It looks holistically at the place of birth with focus on the issue of support during the perinatal period. It draws on statistical, historical, anthropological, biophysical and cultural data within the context of perinatal health in Greenland. The dissertation is comprised of four studies and uses multidisciplinary methods including literature studies, narrative interviews and focus groups in the collection of data. Ethnographic content analysis, cultural resiliency, storytelling and narrative theory are used as the theoretical bases and analysis tools. The mode of conducting focus groups and interviews was based on the principles in the Helsinki Declaration. Over an eight-year period from 2003 to 2011, literature studies, focus groups and individual interviews were conducted. Two literature studies were carried out and empirical data was collected at four sites in Greenland: Nuuk, Ilulissat, Sisimiut and Tasiilaq. Data included seven focus groups with 33 participants, supplemented with 18 individual interviews of women, fathers and Culture Bearers. Post-colonially birth was considered to be a personal matter for women and is therefore a lack of information on childbirth in Greenland. Perinatal policies and guidelines are presented to the communities by policymakers, and officials, but seldom negotiated with the women and communities before implementation. The perinatal family’s concepts of safety are often connected directly to access to family and community. Family is perceived as security, and lack of family support and network as insecurity. The concept of responsibility to family and community is culturally specific and connected to the immediate family, extended family and kin. There is a cultural room for birth in Greenland, where the health of the perinatal family lies in their ability to strengthen the bonds within the families and kinships and community networks. Greenlandic families have risen to the challenges engendered by global economic development and modernization of their society. The communities, families and women of the study perceived themselves as the bearers of their children; the fathers considered themselves to be the artisans and caregivers for their family; the community, including the extended family, deemed an important support network for the families. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

The article presents and analyses 20 photographs taken by ten young people in Paamiut, Greenland. The photographs were taken as a part of workshop facilitated by photographer Tina Enghoff and journalist Anette Molbech and later published as part of a book. The workshop was one of the many activities… The article presents and analyses 20 photographs taken by ten young people in Paamiut, Greenland. The photographs were taken as a part of workshop facilitated by photographer Tina Enghoff and journalist Anette Molbech and later published as part of a book. The workshop was one of the many activities in the community mobilization program Paamiut Asasara. The photos, their titles and narrative texts are analyzed, using the method of a close reading with a clear focus on the photos themselves, combined with a contextual analysis of the photos. Transparency into the step-by-step analysis is used to secure plausibility of the results. The study shows that the photographs present the following themes: (1) searching for strength; (2) moving forward (to be on the move); (3) the will to choose and to make changes; (4) a longing for close relationship; and (5) valuing love, i.e. to love and to be loved. These themes are understood in the context of traditional Inuit story-telling and in the present situation of the young people in Paamiut as part of the Paamiut Asasara program. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

I denne artikel undersøges indhold i og betydningen af unges teater monologer – som de fandt sted i forbindelse med C:ntact’s teater-opsætning med en gruppe unge i Paamiut. Forestillingen bestod af 8 monologer, der blev fremsat af de unge. Da der var tale om monologer undersøges det, hvad der er det… I denne artikel undersøges indhold i og betydningen af unges teater monologer – som de fandt sted i forbindelse med C:ntact’s teater-opsætning med en gruppe unge i Paamiut. Forestillingen bestod af 8 monologer, der blev fremsat af de unge. Da der var tale om monologer undersøges det, hvad der er det specifikke i netop monologen som udtryksform i denne bestemte kontekst. Det undersøges her, hvordan monologen i form af fortælling har indgået i Inuits kultur i fortællinger af myter, sagn og eventyr. Dernæst undersøges indholdet i de unges nutidige dialoger. Der afsluttes med en refleksion over betydningen af de unges dialoger i den konkrete kontekst samt mere generelt som en bestemt udtryksform. Artiklen bygger på interviews med de unge deltagere og med andre borgere i Paamiut samt på et spørgeskema og statistik om udviklingen i Paamiut. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

Med afsæt i læringsprocesser i Fisker- og fangerakademiet i Paamiut i Grønland vises det, hvordan man kæder social ansvarlighed sammen med økologisk ansvarlighed. På denne måde knytter læringsprocessen an til community resiliens. Der gives derefter en kort sammenstilling af denne undersøgelses resul… Med afsæt i læringsprocesser i Fisker- og fangerakademiet i Paamiut i Grønland vises det, hvordan man kæder social ansvarlighed sammen med økologisk ansvarlighed. På denne måde knytter læringsprocessen an til community resiliens. Der gives derefter en kort sammenstilling af denne undersøgelses resultater med andre undersøgelser af læring, livskvalitet og resiliens i inuit samfund. Derefter diskuteres dette i forhold til teorier om social økologi og undervisning i bæredygtig udvikling. Metoden er en form for dokument-collage, hvor der bruges både interviews og dokumenter til at belyse den bæredygtige pædagogik i både dens konkrete og dens globale sammenhæng. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

Paamiut Youth Voice (PYV) is a Participatory Action Research (PAR) project, exploring youth perceptions, experiences, and the promotion of well-being in Paamiut, Greenland. Active youth participation remained a key challenge in the development of the local community through the locally initiated com… Paamiut Youth Voice (PYV) is a Participatory Action Research (PAR) project, exploring youth perceptions, experiences, and the promotion of well-being in Paamiut, Greenland. Active youth participation remained a key challenge in the development of the local community through the locally initiated community mobilisation programme Paamiut Asasara. The challenges of youth participation in PYV are investigated in order to explore the implications of youth participation in PAR projects. The discussion of challenges is based on a methodological account of experiences from the research process clarifying how youth participation in the PYV project took place. Results are presented, concerning the young people’s understandings and experiences of engagement and participation. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

In Paamiut in Kalaallit Nunaat (Greenland) a community mobilisation programme has been launched as a response to a history of violence, suicides, drug abuse, and child neglect. The overall goal of the programme is to strengthen community resilience, psychosocial well-being and revitalisation of the… In Paamiut in Kalaallit Nunaat (Greenland) a community mobilisation programme has been launched as a response to a history of violence, suicides, drug abuse, and child neglect. The overall goal of the programme is to strengthen community resilience, psychosocial well-being and revitalisation of the culture through promotion of locally formulated values and resources, shared activities, mobilisation of social networks, job opportunities and options for entrepreneurship. One of the main goals is to prevent child neglect through a specific programme for young mothers. The chapter describes and analyses the development of concepts, interaction, and social action in the group pf young mothers. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

Artiklen belyser community psykologisk praksis gennem en præsentation af det community psykologiske perspektiv i psyko-sociale programmer, der iværksættes for at fremme mental og social trivsel hos individer,i familier og i lokalsamfund og netværk. Der gives en beskrivelse og analyse af projektet Pa… Artiklen belyser community psykologisk praksis gennem en præsentation af det community psykologiske perspektiv i psyko-sociale programmer, der iværksættes for at fremme mental og social trivsel hos individer,i familier og i lokalsamfund og netværk. Der gives en beskrivelse og analyse af projektet Paamiut Asasara i Kalaallit Nunaat (Grønland). Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

Den høje voldsrate i Kalaallit Nunaat (Grønland) forklares ofte ud fra alkoholmisbrug og affektive handlinger. I denne artikel vises det gennem en kvantitativ og kvalitativ undersøgelse, at den episodiske vold må forstås som symptomer på strukturel vold. Den strukturelle vold er en kontekst, der fre… Den høje voldsrate i Kalaallit Nunaat (Grønland) forklares ofte ud fra alkoholmisbrug og affektive handlinger. I denne artikel vises det gennem en kvantitativ og kvalitativ undersøgelse, at den episodiske vold må forstås som symptomer på strukturel vold. Den strukturelle vold er en kontekst, der fremmer følelser af magtesløshed, social isolation, undgåelse af konflikter og undertrykkelse af følelser - indtil de eksploderer i konkret vold. Den strukturelle vold både legitimerer og forstår den konkrete vold, men den åbner også for interventioner, der kan ændre netop den strukturelle vold. Den strukturelle vold er skadelig for unge, da den fremmer og legitimerer vold - men lokal funderede interventioner kan modvirke dette på en virkningsfuld måde. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

Paamiut Youth Voice (PYV) er et deltagende aktions forskningprojekt (Participatory Action Research, PAR), gennemført med de unge i Paamiut, Kalaallit Nunaat (Grønland). Målet med projektet er at undersøge de unges visioner om og ønsker til hvordan trivsel og deltagelse kan øges. Projektet blev udvik… Paamiut Youth Voice (PYV) er et deltagende aktions forskningprojekt (Participatory Action Research, PAR), gennemført med de unge i Paamiut, Kalaallit Nunaat (Grønland). Målet med projektet er at undersøge de unges visioner om og ønsker til hvordan trivsel og deltagelse kan øges. Projektet blev udviklet og iværksat som en del af det overordnende community mobiliseringsprojekt, Paamiut Asasara, og blev baseret på et lokalt formuleret ønske om viden om - og inddragelse af - de unge. Der blev efterspurgt forskning i, hvordan man bedre kan integrere de unge i samfundet, øge deres generelle trivsel, mindske social eksklusion, samt øge deres oplevelse af samhørighed i samfundet. 61 unge i alderen 12-24 deltog i forskningsprojektet. De unges opfattelse og oplevelse af trivsel blev undersøgt, med særlig fokus på individuelle og community styrker og ressourcer, samt deres ideer og drømme om hvordan trivsel og deltagelse kan øges. De unge deltog i fokusgruppeinterviews, individuelle interviews, udfyldelse af et spørgeskema, arrangering af et borgermøde samt i overvejelser omkring undersøgelsens metode og design og analysen af data. Analysen af data pegede på en række vigtige betingelser for at øge de unges trivsel, og de unges ønsker om social samhørighed, social støtte og åben kommunikation, samt fritidsaktiviteter. Desuden udtrykte de unge ønsker om muligheder for rådgivning, samt bedre muligheder for arbejde og uddannelse lokalt. Manglende deltagelse blev begrundet af de unge med manglende erfaring, støtte, færdigheder og selvtillid og manglende synlig ledelse og initiativ blandt de voksne. Læs mere

Research | Forskning

This study aimed to estimate the age- and sex specific prevalence of patients using antihypertensive medication in Greenland, and compared the quality of care between patients with and without a diagnosis for hypertension. The study was a cross-sectional study comparing patients using antihypertensi… This study aimed to estimate the age- and sex specific prevalence of patients using antihypertensive medication in Greenland, and compared the quality of care between patients with and without a diagnosis for hypertension. The study was a cross-sectional study comparing patients using antihypertensive medication in 2020 (6,629 patients) and 2021 (7,008 patients), respectively. For data from 2021, patients with a medical diagnosis code were identified. Data was obtained from the Greenlandic electronic medical record. The population of Greenland was used as background population. Quality of care was evaluated based on suggested indicators by international guidelines and goals from Steno Diabetes Centre Greenland. The prevalence of patients aged ≥20 years using antihypertensive medication had increased from 16.7% in 2020 to 17.5% in 2021. The prevalence increased by age and was higher among women compared to men. In 2021, the prevalence of patients aged ≥20 years with a medical diagnosis code for hypertension was 7.9%. The use of antihypertensive medication in Greenland is common. The associated quality of care was low. However, process indicators were significantly improved when patients had a medical diagnosis code. Future focus must be on initiating initiatives ensuring that more patients are registered with a medical diagnosis code. Læs mere