Tribal Epi Center (TEC) Newsletter Jan-Mar2016

T R I B A L

E P I D E M I O L O G Y

C E N T E R

NEWSLETTER JANUARY/FEBRUARY/MARCH 2016

8th Annual

T R I B A L P U B L I C H E A LT H

CONFERENCE APRIL 19 – 21, 2016

EMPOWER H D E N

R PI

A E,

AL TH

Y

TIV NA M MU N I T I ES E CO

CREA TE , IN S

GRAND CASINO HOTEL RESORT SHAWNEE, OK.

Contents

06 10 12 14 2 | OKLAHOMA AREA TRIBAL EPIDEMIOLOGY CENTER NEWSLETTER

8TH ANNUAL TRIBAL PUBLIC HEALTH CONFERENCE Wondering if or why you should attend this year’s conference? The OKTEC conference is unique in that it is tailored specifically to address public health issues affecting American Indians. Registration to attend the conference is free.

MYDNA: ABSENTEE-SHAWNEE TRIBE’S CAMPAIGN FOR A DRUG-FREE AMERICA The MyDNA brand and message for a drug-free america goes head-on with an epidemic-size problem among our young people: abuse of and addiction to drugs and alcohol.

2015 INTER-TRIBAL VETERAN’S STAND DOWN The Oklahoma City Area Inter-Tribal Health Board (OCAITHB) staff attended the 2015 Inter-Tribal Veteran’s Stand Down which was hosted by the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes on October 16, 2015 at the Clinton Community Center in Clinton, OK.

OKLAHOMA CITY VA CELEBRATES AMERICAN INDIAN HERITAGE WITH CULTURAL EVENTS In November, the American Indian Council, the OKC VA Native American Elders, and the Warriors group at the Oklahoma City VA Health Care System came together to celebrate and share their culture.

■

JANUARY IS NATIONAL GLAUCOMA AWARENESS MONTH

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FEBRUARY IS AMERICAN HEART MONTH

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MARCH IS NATIONAL NUTRITION MONTH

Be smoke free.

In this issue: Contents 2–3 National Health Observances

4

FastStats Mobile App

5

8th Annual Tribal Public Health Conference

6

OCAITHB/ OK TEC Staff Member Directory

7

A Look into the Oklahoma Inter-tribal Consortium MyDNA: Absentee-Shawnee Tribe’s Campaign for a Drug-Free American

For yourself.

For your family.

8–9 10–11

2015 Inter-Tribal Veteran’s Stand Down 12–13 Oklahoma City VA Celebrates American Indian Heritage with Cultural Events

14–15

Caring Van Events

16–17

Heart Health: February is American Heart Month

18

Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey (BRFSS)

19

Not smoking will help you live a longer, healthier life.

Having a home without tobacco smoke is best for your family.

Produced by the IHS Division of Diabetes Treatment and Prevention, www.diabetes.ihs.gov

JANUARY/FEBRUARY/MARCH 2016 | 3

NATIONAL

HEALTH OBSERVANCES January 2016 Cervical Health & Screening Awareness Month Start the New Year right, call your doctor today to discuss the HPV vaccine, cervical cancer screening, or to schedule a Pap smear.

National Birth Defects Prevention Month Birth defects are common, costly, and critical. In the United States, a baby is born with a birth defect every 4 ½ minutes. All women can make a PACT for birth defects prevention by Planning ahead, Avoiding harmful substances, Choosing a healthy lifestyle and Talking to your healthcare provider.

National Glaucoma Awareness Month Glaucoma is an eye disease that affects mainly adults over the age of 50, person’s with diabetes, those who are very nearsighted or have had damage to the eye.

Glaucoma can be chronic happening gradually over time or acute with symptoms occurring suddenly.

Early detection through regular eye exams are recommended for all adults over the age of forty.

National Stalking Awareness Month Working to raise awareness about the realities of stalking is as critical as ever, especially for the 7.5 million individuals stalked each year in the U.S. Listen and show support. Reach out to someone that can help and take steps to ensure safety.

February 2016 American Heart Month Cardiovascular disease including heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure is responsible for one out of every three deaths. It is the No. 1 killer of American women and men, and it is a leading cause of serious illness and disability. It is important to understand the risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as obesity, inactivity, and diabetes, and to keep your blood pressure and cholesterol under control. By maintaining a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and not

4 | OKLAHOMA AREA TRIBAL EPIDEMIOLOGY CENTER NEWSLETTER

smoking, you can control risk factors and help protect your heart.

National Wear Red Day, Feb 5, 2016 Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women, yet only one in five American women believes heart disease is her greatest health threat. With the right information, education and care, heart disease in women can be treated, prevented, and even ended. Visit GoRedForWomen.org for more information.

March 2016 National Colorectal Awareness Month Colorectal cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the United States and the second leading cause of death from cancer. Colorectal cancer affects people in all racial and ethnic groups and is most often found in people age 50 and older. If everyone age 50 and older were screened regularly, 6 out of 10 deaths from colorectal cancer could be prevented. Communities, health professionals, and families can work together to encourage people to get screened.

National Nutrition Month National Nutrition Month is a nutrition education and information campaign sponsored annually by the American Dietetic Association (ADA). The campaign is designed to focus attention on making informed food choices and developing sound eating and exercise habits. The health guidelines for National Nutrition Month help the public make better choices which could help reduce the risk for some chronic diseases, including cancer. The ADA recommends that people: Aim for fitness by exercising at least 30 minutes a day for five or more days a week; follow national dietary guidelines and choose food sensibly; drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day; limit fast foods and fried foods; prepare foods with less salt; and drink in moderation if drinking alcohol.

National Poison Prevention Week, March 20-26, 2016 More than 2 million poisonings are reported each year to the 57 poison control centers across the country.

More than 90 percent of these poisonings occur in the home. The majority of non-fatal poisonings occur in children younger than six years old and poisonings are one of the leading causes of death among adults. National Poison Prevention Week, the third week in March each year, is a week nationally designated to highlight the dangers of poisonings and how to prevent them. However, every day people can and do prevent poisonings.

For information and to become actively involved in helping ensure the safety of children and adults in your home and your community please contact your local poison control center by calling the nationwide toll-free number 800-222-1222 or Poison Prevention.org.

National Kick Butts Day Kick Butts Day is a national day of activism that empowers youth to stand out, speak up and seize control against Big Tobacco companies. The next Kick Butts Day is March 16, 2016 with more than 1,000 events in schools and communities across the United States and even around the world. On Kick Butts Day, teachers, youth leaders and health advocates organize events to: Raise awareness of the problem of tobacco use in their state or community; Encourage youth to reject the tobacco industry’s deceptive marketing and stay tobaccofree; and Urge elected officials to take action to protect kids from tobacco. Kick Butts Day is organized by the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids.

The first Kick Butts Day was held in 1996.

FastStats Mobile App SUBMITTED BY: TOM ANDERSON • OKTEC DIRECTOR

FastStats is an official application from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) and puts access to topic-specific statistics at your fingertips. The app provides quick access to data from the National Center for Health Statistics. Topics include diseases and conditions, injuries, life stages and populations, health care and insurance, births, and deaths. Content is updated automatically when the device is connected to the internet, giving the user the most up-to-date health statistics a vailable. Download it free today for iOS or Android.

World Tuberculosis Day, March 24, 2016 The World Tuberculosis Day takes place on March 24, 2016 each year. It is a day to raise public awareness about the global epidemic of tuberculosis and efforts made to prevent, treat or to eliminate the disease. The day is observed annually and commemorates the day in 1882 when Dr. Robert Koch astounded the scientific community by announcing that he had discovered the cause of tuberculosis. This event is promoted by organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO).

JANUARY/FEBRUARY/MARCH 2016 | 5

APRIL 19 – 21, 2016

GRAND CASINO HOTEL RESORT 777 GRAND CASINO BLVD SHAWNEE, OK. 74804

8th Annual

T R I B A L P U B L I C H E A LT H

CONFERENCE

(405) 964-7777 WWW.GRANDSHAWNEE.COM

WRITTEN BY: SUSAN GAY • OKTEC PUBLIC HEALTH COORDINATOR

The Oklahoma City Area Inter-Tribal Health Board (OCAITHB) and the Oklahoma Area Tribal Epidemiology Center (OKTEC) are proud to present the 8th Annual Oklahoma Area TEC Public Health Conference. The theme, “Create, Inspire, and Empower Healthy Native Communities” was selected for this year’s conference since it captures the mission of OCAITHB and its partners. The conference will be held April 19 to April 21, 2016 at the recently-renovated Grand Casino Hotel Resort located in Shawnee, Oklahoma.

A pre-conference training will be offered on April 19th; this generally includes workshops that provide intensive trainings in areas of greatest tribal public health demand.

April 20th and 21st will be two days of conference presentations, during which attendees will have several tracks to choose from on various health topics. Tracks for this year’s conference will include chronic disease prevention, men’s health, public health policy and advocacy, and many others. Break-out sessions will be conducted by expert tribal, local, State, federal, and university public health professionals across various disciplines. In addition, the conference features the Color Guard, usually from the host tribal nation, an address by the president of the host tribe, a cultural event, and keynote addresses from distinguished health professionals. One of the new additions to this year’s conference will be a poster presentation. Registration for the conference will be online; registration details and calls for proposals for the poster presentation and presenters are forthcoming; be on the lookout!

OCAITHB normally seeks partners to assist with sponsoring the conference. Sponsorship assists with covering expenses that are not allowed by grant funding. There are three levels of sponsorship: Bean- $1,000-$2,499.00; Squash$2,500-$4,999.00; Corn- $5,000.00 or more. However, a 6 | OKLAHOMA AREA TRIBAL EPIDEMIOLOGY CENTER NEWSLETTER

sponsorship of any amount is appreciated. Sponsors are publicly recognized and shown appreciation during the conference in different ways.

Wondering if or why you should attend this year’s conference? The OKTEC conference is unique in that it is tailored specifically to address public health issues affecting American Indians. Registration to attend the conference is free. It is also an ideal setting to network with tribal partners and public health professionals, gather health resources, and acquire new knowledge and skills related to tribal public health. Attendees will also have the opportunity to purchase Native goods and crafts from a wide array of Native vendors. If you are interested in setting up a vendor booth, would like to be a sponsor, or would like additional information on any aspect of the conference, please contact Patricia Yarholar at pyarholar@ocaithb.org The two-day conference attendance last year was well over 200, and there were 33 sessions and workshops. Evaluations from last year’s conference were extremely positive and provided the impetus for planning an even grander event.

OCAITHB and OKTEC staff are excitedly preparing for this year’s conference with the goal of its being the best yet.

Plan to be there; you won’t want to miss out!

INDIVIDUAL RESERVATIONS/METHOD OF PAYMENT: If individual guest are to make their own reservations, they must call the Hotel directly at 405-964-7777 and identify themselves as members of Oklahoma City Area Inter-Tribal Health. All reservations must be guaranteed with a major credit card. The Grand Casino Hotel Resort strongly suggests you not use your bank debit card to guarantee, as your bank (not the hotel) will take a deposit and hold it until your departure. We do not take cash deposits however you may pay with cash at check out. A valid credit card must be presented by the guest along with a valid ID at check in.

CHECK IN TIME: 3:00pm | CHECK OUT DATE/TIME: 11:00am April 6, 2016 is the cut-off date to get the room rate of $89.00 plus tax

Oklahoma City Area Inter-Tribal Health Board / Oklahoma Area TEC Staff Directory NAME

TITLE

TELEPHONE

EMAIL

Jenifer ShieldChief Gover

Executive Director

(405) 652-9201

jgover@ocaithb.org

Tom Anderson, MPH

OK Tribal Epidemiology Center Director

(405) 652-9204

tom.anderson@ocaithb.org

RD Dickens

Program Development Manager

(405) 652-9206

rd.dickens@ocaithb.org

Loren Tonemah

Project Manager

(405) 652-9207

loren.tonemah@ocaithb.org

Alex E. Smith

Creative Director

(405) 652-9212

asmith@ocaithb.org

Chris Reed

Public Health Training Coordinator/ Creative Design Assistant

(405) 492-6050

creed@ocaithb.org

Cuyler Snider, MPH

TEC Grant Manager/ Epidemiologist

(405) 652- 9205

cuyler.snider@ocaithb.org

Karla Iron

OKTEC Project Manager

(405) 652-9200

kiron@ocaithb.org

Melanie Johnson, M.Ed. Sucharat Tayarachakul, MPH

SPF-TIG Grant Lead/ Project Manager

(405) 652-9211

mjohnson@ocaithb.org

Biostatician/Epidemiologist

(405) 652-9210

stayarachakul@ocaithb.org

Administrative Assistant

(405) 652-9200

sjohnson@ocaithb.org

(405) 652-9214

pyarholar@ocaithb.org

(405) 652-9203

hross@ocaithb.org

Shoshanna Johnson Patricia Yarholar Harvey Ross, MPH

TEC Grant Lead/ Public Health Coordinator Emergency Preparedness Grant Lead/Program Coordinator

Tracy Sexton, MBA

Grant Finance Manager

(405) 652-9219

tsexton@ocaithb.org

Amber Anderson

Diabetes Coordinator

(405) 652-9213

aanderson@ocaithb.org

Erin Hodson

Epidemiologist

(405) 492-6060

ehodson@ocaithb.org

Tracey Prather, R.T., CVT, MHA Susan Gay, M.A.Ed., CHES

Good Health and Wellness Program Coordinator Public Health Training Coordinator

(405) 652-9216

tprather@ocaithb.org

(405) 652-9202

sgay@ocaithb.org

Janice Black

Caring Van Coordinator

(405) 652-9209

jblack@ocaithb.org

(405) 652-9208

chris.tallbear@ocaithb.org

(405) 652-9219

yhawkins@ocaithb.org

(405) 492-6100

nwahpepah@ocaithb.org

(405) 652-9200

tdougherty@ocaithb.org

Chris Tall Bear, MLS Yonavea Hawkins Nick Wahpepah Tyler Dougherty

Tobacco Program Coordinator Public Health Training Coordinator Health Disparities Grant Lead Biostatistical Intern

JANUARY/FEBRUARY/MARCH 2016 | 7

A LOOK INTO

THE OKLAHOMA INTERTRIBAL CONSORTIUM

The Oklahoma Intertribal Consortium WORKING TOGETHER: ADDRESSING PRESCRIPTION DRUG ABUSE AND UNDERAGE DRINKING - A COLLABORATION BETWEEN THE ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE, THE CHEYENNE AND ARAPAHO TRIBES, THE CHICKASAW NATION, THE COMANCHE NATION, AND THE OKLAHOMA CITY AREA INTER-TRIBAL HEALTH BOARD. WRITTEN BY: SUCHARAT “GIFT” TAYARACHAKUL EPIDEMIOLOGIST

OUR GOAL IS TO DESCRIBE HOW FOUR TRIBES AND ONE TRIBAL HEALTH BOARD ARE WORKING TOGETHER TO ADDRESS TWO MAJOR COMMON PROBLEMS — PRESCRIPTION DRUG ABUSE AND UNDERAGE DRINKING.

C

ompetition for grant dollars is fierce, especially for tribes with low citizenship.

Funding agencies want to maximize their dollars by having the greatest effect, and funding individual tribes with low membership may not achieve this. Funding a consortium of tribes to address a common problem, however, not only increases the population affected but also strengthens efforts of consortium members.

Our goal is to describe how four tribes and one tribal health board are working together to address two major common problems – prescription drug abuse and underage drinking. In response to a funding opportunity

8 | OKLAHOMA AREA TRIBAL EPIDEMIOLOGY CENTER NEWSLETTER

from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the Oklahoma City Area Inter-tribal Health Board (OCAITHB) solicited participation from the 42 tribes in its jurisdiction. Four tribes responded – the Absentee Shawnee Tribe, the Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribes, the Chickasaw Nation, and the Comanche Nation.

These five organizations formed the Oklahoma Area Inter-tribal Consortium (OIC) and submitted an application. The OIC was awarded the SAMHSA Strategic Prevention Framework – Tribal Incentive Grant (SPF-TIG). Now, this consortium is collecting previously uncollected data regarding substance use among Native Americans. Using these data, these tribes are developing and implementing prevention strategies in their communities. Tribes working together acts as a force multiplier.

The OIC’s demonstrated results can serve as a model for other tribes or organizations interested in working together to address common issues. Future funding opportunities should be molded in a way that encourages consortiums. This is a win-win for tribes and funding agencies.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2015

PICTURED FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: RAQUEL RAMOS, COMANCHE NATION PREVENTION AND RECOVERY, COMANCHE NATION, LAWTON, OK., CLARA BUSHYHEAD, CHEYENNE AND ARAPAHO TRIBES, CONCHO, OK., KASEY DEAN, LITTLE AXE HEALTH CENTER - BEHAVIORAL HEALTH, SHAWNEE TRIBE OF OKLAHOMA, NORMAN, OK., SUCHARAT “GIFT” TAYARACHAKUL, OKLAHOMA AREA TRIBAL EPIDEMIOLOGY CENTER, OKLAHOMA CITY AREA INTER-TRIBAL HEALTH BOARD, OKLAHOMA CITY, OK., HOWARD BROWN, LITTLE AXE HEALTH CENTER - BEHAVIORAL HEALTH, SHAWNEE TRIBE OF OKLAHOMA, NORMAN, OK., MARIA FARMER, CHEYENNE AND ARAPAHO TRIBES, CONCHO, OK., TOM ANDERSON, OKLAHOMA AREA TRIBAL EPIDEMIOLOGY CENTER, OKLAHOMA CITY AREA INTER-TRIBAL HEALTH BOARD, OKLAHOMA CITY, OK. NOT PICTURED: MELANIE JOHNSON, M.ED, OKLAHOMA AREA TRIBAL EPIDEMIOLOGY CENTER, OKLAHOMA CITY AREA INTER-TRIBAL HEALTH BOARD, OKLAHOMA CITY, OK., CHRISTIE BYARS, CHICKASAW NATION DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, CHICKASAW NATION OF OKLAHOMA, TISHOMINGO, OK.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY/MARCH 2016 | 9

IT IS NOT MY HERITAGE OR MY HISTORY TO SUBMIT MY LIFE AND MY STRENGTH TO A SUBSTANCE THAT HAS NO INTENTION OTHER THAN TO CAUSE ME HARM IS NOT MY NATURAL INSTINCT. NOR IS IT IN MY DNA. I WAS BORN,

BY NATURE, INTO STRENGTH, TENACITY, AND AN INNATE ABILITY TO OVERCOME, NO MATTER HOW DIRE THE CIRCUMSTANCE. THESE ARE THE CHARACTERISTICS THAT ARE IN MY BLOOD AND THAT WROTE MY HISTORY. I WILL TAKE OWNERSHIP IN THAT HISTORY AND WILL COMMIT TO WRITING THE NEXT CHAPTER WITH INTEGRITY AND A PROMISE TO UPHOLD THE VERY VALUES THAT MADE IT POSSIBLE FOR MY GENERATION TO EXIST TODAY.

10 | OKLAHOMA AREA TRIBAL EPIDEMIOLOGY CENTER NEWSLETTER

INTRO BY: ALEX E. SMITH • OCAITHB CREATIVE DIRECTOR WRITTEN BY: KASEY DEAN • LITTLE AXE HEALTH CENTER BEHAVIORAL HEALTH, ABSENTEE-SHAWNEE TRIBE OF OKLAHOMA STATISTICS PROVIDED BY: DRUGFREEWORLD.ORG, OKLAHOMAWATCH.ORG, OK.GOV, AND NATIONAL SURVEY ON DRUG USE AND HEALTH

MyDNA

ABSENTEE-SHAWNEE TRIBE’S CAMPAIGN FOR A DRUG-FREE NATIVE AMERICA

F

or those who aren’t familiar with the MyDNA campaign yet­—get ready, because you’ll want to be a part of this. A brand new campaign initiative by Kasey Dean and Howard Brown of the Absentee-Shawnee Tribe was unveiled recently through an impressive presentation and focus discussion here at Oklahoma City Area Inter-tribal Health Board. The MyDNA brand and message for a drug-free america goes head-on with an epidemic-size problem among our young people: abuse of and addiction to drugs and alcohol. The numbers don’t lie: • 32,000 young people in Oklahoma are struggling with addiction right now. 80% of them say that they got their first drugs or alcohol from friends and peers. 50% got it from family members.

• On average, two Oklahomans are killed every single day by prescription drug overdose.

• Every day in the U.S., 2500 youth ages 12-17 take a non-prescribed painkiller for the first time.

• Approximately 68 young people die from alcohol-related deaths every year in Oklahoma.

• The average age at which Oklahoma youth report taking their first drink is 12.

• 21.2 million Americans over the age of 12 currently need treatment for illegal drug or alcohol use problem.

MyDNA was created to empower Native teens and other young people who may encounter pressure of drugs and alcohol or for those who are struggling with addiction right now. Our goal was to target the young adult, teenage and youth population, through the use of social media, websites and alternative activities. We will be promoting healthy lifestyle through various events; these are to be campaigns which will motivate our young people into choosing good, beneficial habits instead of bad ones! We will be running monthly contests to highlight those youth who jump on board with the MyDNA campaign and will promote their healthy living example by showcasing what their alternative activity is.

The Absentee Shawnee Tribe would like to thank the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and the Oklahoma City Area Inter-Tribal Health Board for their funding of the SPF-TIG Project.

Check out our website at www.mydna.rocks for more information or contact Kasey Dean at 405-701-7993.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY/MARCH 2016 | 11

A LOOK

INTO VETERANS AFFAIRS

2015 Inter-Tribal Veteran’s Stand Down WRITTEN BY: KARLA IRON • TEC GRANT MANAGER

The OCAITHB Executive Director, Ms. Jenifer ShieldChief Gover, was honored with the opportunity to serve as one of the key note speakers for this event. Ms. ShieldChief Gover discussed the role of Native Veterans and how highly they are regarded in our Native culture.

She also shared with the audience the fact that the OCAITHB staff are working with the State of Oklahoma, the tribes, and the Veterans Administration to change the definition of homelessness. This would create better opportunities for all homeless Veterans, so they can get the help and services they need and are well deserving of for their service to our country.

The Oklahoma City Area Inter-Tribal Health Board (OCAITHB) staff attended the 2015 Inter-Tribal Veteran’s Stand Down which was hosted by the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes on October 16, 2015 at the Clinton Community Center in Clinton, OK. Various tribes participated, including the Kiowa Tribe of Oklahoma, Delaware Nation, and Comanche Nation.

12 | OKLAHOMA AREA TRIBAL EPIDEMIOLOGY CENTER NEWSLETTER

As of right now, only those Veterans who are in shelters are considered homeless and can receive assistance.

Those Veterans who are on the streets or staying with family do not qualify to receive any assistance because they do not fall under the current definition of homelessness.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY/MARCH 2016 | 13

Oklahoma City VA Celebrates American Indian Heritage with Cultural Events WRITTEN BY: PATRICIA YARHOLAR OKTEC GRANT LEAD/PUBLIC HEALTH COORDINATOR

14 | OKLAHOMA AREA TRIBAL EPIDEMIOLOGY CENTER NEWSLETTER

I

n November, the American Indian Council, the OKC VA Native American Elders, and the Warriors group at the Oklahoma City VA Health Care System came together to celebrate and share their culture.

On November 4, Viet Nam Veterans Matheson Hamilton and Albert Gray Eagle shared stories and flute. One story focused on the sacrifices of Veterans’ mothers.

Mr. Hamilton commented “Albert and I have done this before. Once we presented to a group in New Mexico.

There were Gold Star mothers in the audience, a bunch of them, and they all cried. I told Albert I don’t want to do this anymore; we are just making them cry. Albert said, ‘No, we are helping them heal’. He was right. We are helping them heal while we heal ourselves”. Mr. Gray Eagle shared his personal history with flute playing and flute making, and how these activities help him cope with PTSD. The presentation provided insights into the importance of storytelling and flute playing in the Native American culture, and improved understanding of the therapeutic value of cultural activities to Native Americans and others.

The 16th Annual Veterans Honor Dance was held November 13, 2015 in the OKC VA Health Wing. Estimated attendance was 250-300 people, representing 33 tribes, Veterans from all branches of service, and many non-Native visitors. Mr. Edward Woody, Assistant Director for OKC VA HCS provided The final event for American Heritage Month was done welcoming remarks. The event was facilitated by Tim in collaboration with Lawton Indian Hospital. Jamie Tallchief, who served as Master of Ceremonies. Mr. Swanson, MS, LPC/LMFT and Jenny Head, BA, Family Tallchief did a great job of coordinating activities, Mental Health Specialist presented “Impact of Historical educating newcomers, and providing humor. Viet Trauma: Ways of Gaining Strength” on November 18 Nam Veteran Willard Walker, Sac and Fox Nation, in Chase Auditorium Ms. Swanson and Ms. Head used served as head singer, and Randy Frazier, Prairie Band historical data, clinical research and personal stories to Potawatomi was Head Dancer. Eleanor McDaniel, first inform participants on the effects of historical trauma Comanche woman Veteran to serve in combat was as well as providing culturally acceptable ways of Head Lady Dancer, and Graham Primo (Ponca, Pawnee, dealing with the resulting stress. The presentation was Otoe, Potawatomi and Osage) did a great job as attended by fifty people, Arena Director. Honored including providers, staff guests were Marshal and Veterans. At the Gover, Pawnee Nation, I AM SEVENTY-FOUR YEARS OLD, AND I conclusion of the event, and Pershing Yeaquo, WANT TO TELL EVERYONE HERE THAT THIS IS Madonna Myers, a Navajo Kiowa Tribe. Both of these TRUE WHAT THEY ARE SAYING. I HAVE LIVED lady who volunteers at gentlemen are highlyOKC VA, stood up and decorated Marine Corp IT AND I KNOW...SO WHEN YOU FOLKS stated “I am seventy-four Veterans of Viet Nam. WORK WITH OUR PEOPLE, years old, and I want to tell Special presentations everyone here that this is were made by Changing JUST REMEMBER AND BE KIND. true what they are saying. I Winds Cultural Society have lived it and I know… and Cathrine Walker. so when you folks work with our people, just remember Thirteen craftsmen displayed beautiful examples of Native American arts and crafts. The Warriors and Elders and be kind.” honored Veteran spouses, widows and mothers with gift Oklahoma City VA Health Care System has supported bags. Refreshments were provided by the Elders and these cultural events, as they have consistently Warriors, and OKC VA Volunteer Services supported outreach to Native American Veterans. As a result of this support, and these activities, Oklahoma City has increased the number of Native American Veterans who are enrolled for care.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY/MARCH 2016 | 15

CARING

VAN

OCAITHB PUBLIC HEALTH TRAINING COORDINATORS: JANICE BLACK AND YONAVEA HAWKINS

EVENTS

CHEYENNE & ARAPAHO ELDER CONFERENCE CLINTON, OK. PICTURED LEFT TO RIGHT: DAISY HIGGINS, GLORIA BELLYMULE-ZUNIGA, SHARON ALLRUNNER

October 2015

November 2015

October 10, 2015 – Inter-Tribal Veteran’s Stand Down, Clinton, Oklahoma This event was hosted by the Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribes of Oklahoma. The Caring Van provided diabetes foot checks, blood pressure checks for veterans.

November 5, 2015 - 13th Annual Elder’s Conference “Celebrate Life as a Native Elder” This was held at the Frisco Center in Clinton, Oklahoma and sponsored by the Cheyenne & Arapaho Diabetes Wellness Program.

October 17, 2015 – American Heart Association’s “The Beat of Life” Health Fair located at the Firelake Arena at Shawnee, Oklahoma The Caring Van provided diabetes foot checks and education.

October 29, 2015 – Iowa Tribe/Cimarron Casino, Perkins, Oklahoma We provided flu vaccinations for the Iowa tribal members and casino employees.

November 6, 2015 - White Eagle Health Fair 2015 This was held at the Hutchins Memorial Auditorium in Ponca City.

November 12, 2015 Provided community flu vaccinations for the City of Perkins and the Red Bud Assisted Living Center in Perkins, Oklahoma.

December 2015 December 4th – Veteran Expo 2015 at the Pioneer Technology Center in Ponca City, OK. Preventative Health Service TBD.

Special thanks to all the IHS health staff, and the Tribal Community Health Directors and Representatives. With their support we were able to provide preventative health services to tribal communities and health events throughout the state of Oklahoma.

16 | OKLAHOMA AREA TRIBAL EPIDEMIOLOGY CENTER NEWSLETTER

RECENTLY THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS WRITTEN BY: SUSAN GAY • OKTEC PUBLIC HEALTH COORDINATOR

AFFAIRS OFFICE OF TRIBAL GOVERNMENT RELATIONS, THE OKLAHOMA CITY VA HEALTH CARE SYSTEM, AND THE CHEYENNE AND ARAPAHO TRIBES, DELAWARE TRIBES AND WICHITA AND AFFILIATED TRIBES COLLABORATED TOGETHER TO PROVIDE SERVICES TO THE NATIVE AMERICAN VETERAN HOMELESS POPULATION FROM EACH OF THEIR RESPECTIVE TRIBES IN CLINTON, OKLAHOMA. INSIDE WE WERE ABLE TO PROVIDE SERVICES THROUGH 56 DIFFERENT

THE OKLAHOMA CARING FOUNDATION IS PROUD TO PARTNER WITH THE OKLAHOMA CITY AREA INTER-TRIBAL HEALTH BOARD (OCAITHB) TO OPERATE A CARING VAN. LAUNCHED IN EARLY 2015, THE CARING VAN COLLABORATION UNITES OCAITHB‘S MISSION TO IMPROVE THE HEALTH AND QUALITY OF LIFE IN TRIBAL COMMUNITIES, AND THE OKLAHOMA CARING FOUNDATION‘S WORK TO PROVIDE OKLAHOMANS ACCESS TO PREVENTIVE HEALTH SERVICES. OUR PARTNERSHIP ALLOWS EACH ORGANIZATION TO UTILIZE ITS UNIQUE EXPERTISE TO DELIVER NEEDED SERVICES TO CHILDREN AND ADULTS WHO ENCOUNTER BARRIERS TO ACCESSING TRADITIONAL CARE PROVIDERS. TOGETHER, WE ARE ALLEVIATING HEALTH DISPARITIES AMONG UNDERSERVED OKLAHOMANS.

PAULA HUCK EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OKLAHOMA CARING FOUNDATION, INC

VENDORS. THIS YEAR, THE OKLAHOMA CITY AREA INTER-TRIBAL HEALTH BOARD PROVIDED THEIR CARING VAN AS A RESOURCE FOR SERVICES. THE CLINTON IHS PODIATRY CLINIC USED THE VAN TO PROVIDE MUCH NEEDED DIABETIC FOOT CARE AND PODIATRY SERVICES TO VETERANS IN NEED OF THIS SERVICE. UNABLE TO PROVIDE THIS NEEDED SERVICE BEFORE, THE FOOT CARE AND USE OF THE CARING VAN WAS GREATLY RECEIVED BY THOSE IN ATTENDANCE. VA’ OFFICE OF TRIBAL GOVERNMENT RELATIONS CANNOT THANK THE OCAITHB ENOUGH FOR ALLOWING THE CARING VAN TO PROVIDE A SERVICE THAT OFTEN GOES OVERLOOKED AS A NEED TO OUR HOMELESS NATIVE VETERAN POPULATION. THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT AND FOR ALL YOU DO TO SUPPORT AND PROVIDE SERVICES TO OUR VETERAN POPULATION.

MARY CULLEY TRIBAL GOVERNMENT RELATIONS SPECIALIST U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS

JANUARY/FEBRUARY/MARCH 2016 | 17

PREVENTING HEART DISEASE: HEART-HEALTHY HABITS

Heart Health

FEBRUARY IS AMERICAN HEART MONTH WRITTEN BY: SUSAN GAY • OKTEC PUBLIC HEALTH COORDINATOR

THE EFFECTS OF HEART DISEASE • Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both women and men in the United States.

• In Oklahoma, heart disease is the leading cause of death.

• In 2012, American Indians had the highest heart disease death rates of all races in Oklahoma.

• In Kansas, heart disease was the leading cause of death among American Indians in 2014.

• In Texas, heart disease was the leading cause of death in 2012.

LEADING CAUSES OF HEART DISEASE • • • • • • •

Poor diet/nutrition Diabetes Obesity Smoking Physical inactivity High blood pressure High cholesterol

18 | OKLAHOMA AREA TRIBAL EPIDEMIOLOGY CENTER NEWSLETTER

• Healthy Diet/Nutrition- By choosing healthy meals and snacks, you can help avoid heart disease and the problems that come with it. Eat lots of vegetables and fruits and less processed foods. Eating foods high in fiber, and low in saturated fats, trans fat, and cholesterol can help prevent high cholesterol. Limiting salt (sodium) can help lower blood pressure. Limiting sugar can help lower blood sugar levels to prevent or manage diabetes.

• Healthy Weight- Overweight and obesity increase the risk of heart disease. Know your healthy weight range based on your height and weight, and seek your doctor’s help to reach and maintain it.

• Physical Activity- Physical activity helps to maintain a healthy weight. It also helps lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and sugar levels. Adults should engage in at least 150 minutes or two hours and thirty minutes of moderate-intensity exercise (e.g. brisk walking, pushing a lawn mower, ballroom dancing, gardening, playing Frisbee, bicycling, etc.) every week. Children and teenagers should get at least one hour of physical activity every day.

• Limited Alcohol- Limit how much alcohol you drink.

Drinking too much alcohol can raise blood pressure.

Men should have no more than two drinks per day.

Women should have no more than one drink per day.

• No Smoking- Cigarette smoking greatly increases the risk of heart disease. If you smoke, get help to quit. If you do not smoke, do not start; quitting may be difficult.

For information regarding health literacy training and information, please visit: www.heart.org/idc/groups/heart-public/@wcm/@sop/@ smd/documents/downloadable/ucm_472922.pdf www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/index.htm www.ok.gov/health/pub/boh/state/SOSH%20 2014-Indicator%20Report%20Cards.pdf www.dshs.state.tx.us/heart/Data-and-Surveillance.aspx www.kdheks.gov/hci/as/2014/2014_AS.pdf

Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey (BRFSS) WRITTEN BY: PATRICIA YARHOLAR, OKTEC GRANT LEAD/PUBLIC HEALTH COORDINATOR

The Oklahoma City Area Inter-Tribal Health Board (OCAITHB) is a non-profit organization based in Oklahoma City. The Board was established in 1972 to provide a unified voice for all 43 federally recognized Indian tribes located in Kansas, Oklahoma and Texas.

Board membership is from the 12 service units in U.S. Public Health Service and OK City Area Indian Health Service.

The Oklahoma Area Tribal Epidemiology Center (OKTEC) are an Indian Health Service, division funded organization who serve American Indian/Alaska Native Tribal and urban communities. By managing public health information systems, investigating diseases of concern, managing disease prevention and control programs, responding to public health emergencies, and coordinating these activities with other public health authorities. Our mission is to improve the health of AI/AN in Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas by providing public health services in epidemiology, data management, analysis, training, health promotion/ disease prevention and research through outreach and creative partnerships. While identifying and understanding health problems and disease risks and strengthening public health capacity.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and BRFSS is the nation’s premier system of health surveys that collect state data about U.S. residents regarding their health-related risk behaviors and events, chronic health conditions, and use of preventive services. Currently BRFSS collects data in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and three U.S. territories. The OCAITHB-OKTEC have the opportunity to administer the BRFSS survey in the American Indian population and will be visiting community events and activities to gather data utilizing the survey. None of the information asks for personal information and answers cannot be tracked to you, as this is a simple random survey. The BRFSS is a research study, involving only individuals who choose to volunteer. Criteria include being AI/AN, 18 years or age of older, and residence in Kansas, Oklahoma or Texas. The purpose of this study is to gain a better understanding of health risks of American Indians and to provide increased knowledge and data access for health priorities in tribal communities to create and modify existing programs, and guide policy makers.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY/MARCH 2016 | 19

OKLAHOMA CITY AREA INTER-TRIBAL HEALTH BOARD ■ 9705 N. BROADWAY EXTENSION, STE. 150 ■ OKLAHOMA CITY, OK. 73114 WWW.OCAITHB.ORG ■ PHONE (405) 652-9200 ■ FAX (405) 840-7052

For newsletter submissions, questions, or to be placed on the mailing list Email: asmith@ocaithb.org • Subject NEWSLETTER