Asthma Care in Pregnancy: A New, Culturally Safe Model for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Women
The Challenge
Asthma during pregnancy, if poorly treated, can reduce oxygen supply to the fetus, increasing risks of preterm birth, low birth weight, and delivery complications.
Despite these serious risks, a significant gap has existed in both data and culturally appropriate care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women managing asthma while pregnant. Existing healthcare systems have not always been culturally safe, creating barriers that prevent access to essential care.
The Program
The Breathe for Bub program, led by HMRI and Newcastle University researcher Dr. Elissa Elvidge, is working to change this. The initiative is community-led, involving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women from the outset to design a model of care that is truly safe and effective.
"It's our story and we need an avenue in the research arena for our voice."
— Aunty Dawn Townsend
Researcher Kerri Shying emphasized that the program aims to identify unmet needs and have a lasting community impact.
Key Focus Areas:
- Addressing the Data Gap: Collecting information that accurately reflects the experiences and needs of Indigenous women.
- Culturally Safe Care: Building a healthcare model that respects and integrates cultural practices and community wisdom.
- Community Empowerment: Ensuring the program is driven by the voices of the women it aims to support.