MBRACe Research
Black Populations Health
A Critical Examination of the Social and Structural Factors that Impact People of African Descent with Uterine Fibroids in Nova Scotia
Project Timeline: January 2024 - December 2025
Project Background
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths in the uterus that are generally considered harmless. Many people with uterine fibroids experience symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain or pressure, bladder issues, fertility challenges, and a reduced quality of life. Available research indicates that Black women are disproportionately impacted by uterine fibroids and experience more severe symptoms compared to the general population.
Project Overview
Our study uses demographic forms paired with semi-structured interviews to examine experiences related to the diagnosis, management, and treatment of uterine fibroids for people of African descent in Nova Scotia.
The findings from our project will be used to enhance accessible, person-centered, and culturally appropriate healthcare for people of African descent with uterine fibroids in Nova Scotia.
Project Objectives
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To understand the social and structural factors that impact people of African descent with uterine fibroids in Nova Scotia;
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To develop recommendations to enhance accessible, person-centered, and culturally appropriate healthcare for people of African descent with uterine fibroids in Nova Scotia; and
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To build research capacity in Nova Scotia to advance Black health research
Project Funding
Project Partners
People of African Descent with Uterine Fibroids: A Scoping Review
Funding Period: 2024 - 2026
Project Background
Emerging data shows an alarming increase in the incidence and severity of uterine fibroids with debilitating symptoms among Black people of African descent. Currently there is no comprehensive systematic synthesis of the existing literature on uterine fibroids among People of African Descent globally.
Project Overview
An interdisciplinary team will conduct this scoping review using a systemic approach to screen, review, extract, analyze and combine information from the literature.
This review follows JBI scoping review methodology and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) Checklist. The comprehensive search strategy was developed in collaboration with a library scientist to search relevant databases.
Project Objectives
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To understand the extent and type of literature available regarding Black people of African descent with uterine fibroids globally.
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To identify the gaps within existing literature.
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To provide recommendations for future research involving Black people of African descent with uterine fibroids.
Funders
Understanding the Mental Health Experiences of Black Women in Nova Scotia
Funding Period: 2025 - 2026
Project Background
The mental health and well-being of Black women is an issue of ongoing concern. Challenges shaped by racism, sexism, classism, and intergenerational trauma remain largely unaddressed due to long-standing stigma and a lack of culturally appropriate care in Black communities. This project seeks to better understand the mental health experiences of Black women, build trust, and address gaps in both health service and health policy.
Project Overview
Guided by Black Feminist Theory, this qualitative study uses one-on-one interviews and questionnaires to explore how Black women across Nova Scotia perceive and navigate mental health experiences.
Project Objectives
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Describe the perceptions and experiences of mental health for Black women in Nova Scotia.
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Develop culturally relevant mental health resources and tools.
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Inform policy recommendations for more inclusive healthcare.
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Strengthen Black health research capacity in Nova Scotia.
Funding
This project is funded by the Office of Addictions and Mental Health and Research Nova Scotia through the New Investigator in Addictions and Mental Health grant, under the province’s Community Wellness Framework.
The funding will support student research stipend, participant and community partner honoraria, as well as community-based activities across Nova Scotia.
Inclusivity In Nursing
Belonging and Success in Nursing: An Exploratory Mixed Method Study
Study Duration: 2024 - 2025
Study Background
Ongoing issues of discrimination and Anti-Black racism in nursing education have significant implications for Black populations’ health outcomes, the delivery of competent care, and representation within the nursing workforce. Despite efforts to address these issues, gaps exist in addressing discrimination and racism in nursing programs across Nova Scotia.
Study Overview
This is an exploratory mixed methods study involving participants from nursing programs in multiple institutions across Nova Scotia. Knowledge gained from this project will be used to expand the Pamoja Nursing Program and advance efforts towards enhancing diversity within the nursing workforce.
Study Objectives
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To understand the experiences of Black nursing students throughout Nova Scotia.
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To develop, implement, and evaluate an evidence-informed recruitment and retention program for Black students in nursing programs throughout Nova Scotia.
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To inform institutional policies and initiatives to support the recruitment and retention of Black students in nursing programs throughout Nova Scotia.
Co-Investigators
Florence Luhanga, PhD, RN
University of Regina
Josephine Etowa, PhD, RN
University of Ottawa
Bukola Salami, PhD, RN
University of Calgary
Christine Cassidy, PhD, RN
Dalhousie University
Brittany Benoit, PhD, RN
St. Francis Xavier University
Crystal Watson, Academic Chair
Nova Scotia Community College
Nova Scotia Community College