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Download AudioNational Party health spokesperson Shane Reti says tackling the diabetes crisis should be a top priority.
He says Maori and Pasifika are genetically predisposed to what has become the highest killer in New Zealand after cancer and cardio-vascular disease.
His health manifesto will include lifestyle and medical measures to control the disease, as well as support for collaboration with Maori and Pacific health providers.
“You will see a desired set of outcomes we all agree upon that can be reached, and then my question will be what do you need? What resources do I need to give you to get to those outcomes? What is the timeframe? And then you and me are responsible for those outcomes, That is how we are going to approach diabetes,” Dr Reti says.
He says not only do Maori start off genetically behind the 8-ball with diabetes but also they often can’t afford to make choices that could make them safer such as the right food and a gym subscription.
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