Knowledge Translation

MHST 632 Unit 7, Learning Activity 2

Knowledge translation (KT) is "… a dynamic and iterative process that includes synthesis, dissemination, exchange and ethically sound application of knowledge …" (Canadian Institutes of Health Research, 2012). The application of KT throughout the entire research process is referred to as Integrated Knowledge Translation (iKT) (Canadian Institutes of Health Research, 2012); in application this may look like refinement of the research question, choice of methodology, selection of data collection tools and outcome measures, in addition to interpreting and disseminating results (Canadian Institutes of Health Research, 2012).

For my chosen health promotion topic, a skin cancer screening and prevention program for firefighters, there are many opportunities for iKT strategies to be applied at various steps pre-, during, and post- program.

The following key areas of the CIHR Model of KT may be applicable to the chosen proposed project during project proposal steps:

• Research Question: In the project proposal, the project team would complete a literature review identify and clearly convey the risk for firefighters to have skin cancer compared to members of the general public, due to their occupational exposures to carcinogenic materials.

• Research Approach: Within the proposal, there will be clear evidence that skin cancer screening is not currently a common practice in cancer for active or retired firefighters across the Canadian fire service, and that cancer screening can detect melanoma and non-melanoma cancer.

• Feasibility: To show commitment to the proposed workplace health promotion project, there would be letters of commitment shared by the employer and union representation, as well as the local dermatology clinic that would conduct the skin cancer screens.

• Outcomes: The project facilitators anticipate great interest in the outcomes of the program by various stakeholders such as the union, employer and other municipalities across Alberta and Canada. The knowledge from this project could be transferrable to other Canadian fire services seeking to prevent cancer.

Furthermore, the CIHR End-of Grant KT has a few components applicable to the project as well with respect to "strategies". Diffusion of the key learnings could include a non-peer reviewed publication submitted to the Alberta Professional Fire Fighters and Paramedics Association, as well as conference presentation to the annual Alberta Fire Chiefs Association. These diffusion and dissemination strategies will make a valuable knowledge contribution to the provincial and national communities advocating for, and taking action to prevention cancer among fire fighters.

Kylie

Canadian Institutes of Health Research. (2012, December 6). Guide to Knowledge Translation Planning at CIHR: Integrated and End-of-Grant Approaches - CIHR. Government of Canada. https://cihr-irsc.gc.ca/e/45321.html