Environmental Exposures of the Northern Arapaho Tribe: An Exploratory Study

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PROJECT SUMMARY The Northern Arapaho tribe on the Wind River Reservation in Wyoming has become increasingly concerned about possible environmental exposures, in both indoor and ambient environments. A pilot study of this community indicated specific exposures and health concerns that warrant additional study, including indoor radon exposure and uranium in soil. A Community Advisory Board (CAB) has been established to guide this work in a culturally-sensitive and collaborative manner, with their input sought through all aspects of the project. The CAB consists of members of the N. Arapaho community with knowledge and experience in the environment, health and education, all of whom are eager to see this work succeed. This community-engaged project represents a holistic assessment incorporating traditional ecological knowledge (TEK). It is a true collaboration, with ongoing, reciprocal communication between the tribe and the research team. The first aim is to assess environmental exposures in both indoor and outdoor locations throughout the Wind River Reservation, with focus on a citizen science approach to engage community members. Specifically, we will measure indoor/outdoor particulate matter (PM), indoor radon, and heavy metals in soil, plants, and water. Half (n=36) of participating households will be directly involved in equipment installation, including innovative low- cost equipment for measuring PM. The second aim is to gain a better understanding of the current respiratory health status of the N. Arapaho, through surveys, medical records, and population-level data analysis. Specifically, we will look at respiratory outcomes with a possible environmental risk factor, such as asthma and certain cancers. One goal of this aim is to build collaboration and research capacity between the tribe and the Rocky Mountain Tribal Epidemiology Center. The final aim is to examine the effect of real-time exposure feedback on changes in environmental risk perception and related behaviors. Repeated surveys will allow investigation into the sustainability of any observed changes. Successful completion of this community- engaged project represents a significant step towards sustainably improving environmental health across the Wind River Reservation. Ultimately, this effort will be used to empower the tribe, engage the community in research, and inform future environmental health work with Native American tribes.