Māori Male Cancer Rates Need to Change and in my opinion this is how
If you ask me, as someone with a bunch of tumours in my head, it isn’t rocket science we need to do more when it comes to cancer and Māori men.
Cancer remains a significant health issue worldwide, and for Māori men in New Zealand, the burden is notably heavy. Māori men face higher cancer rates and poorer outcomes compared to non-Māori men. This disparity calls for a targeted approach in cancer prevention and early detection tailored to the specific needs and cultural context of Māori communities. Māori are more likely than non-Māori to be diagnosed with a range of cancers, including breast, liver, lung, pancreatic, stomach and uterine. However, non-Māori (primarily New Zealand Europeans) are more likely than Māori to be diagnosed with melanoma and prostate cancers.
Māori men have higher incidences of lung, stomach, liver, and colorectal cancers. Factors contributing to these disparities include socioeconomic challenges, lifestyle factors, limited access to healthcare services, and genetic predispositions. Additionally, systemic inequities in healthcare contribute to later-stage diagnoses and lower survival rates for Māori men. Māori men with prostate cancer had poorer all-cause survival and cancer-specific survival than NZ Europeans. Māori men were at risk of having more advanced disease at diagnosis, which explains most of the survival inequity between Māori men and NZ Europeans. For prostate cancer, Māori men are less likely than non-Māori men to be diagnosed with prostate cancer, but those that are diagnosed are much more likely to die of the disease than non-Māori men resulting in an excess mortality rate in Māori men compared with non-Māori.
Key Strategies for Cancer Prevention
1. Raising Awareness and Education
Education is crucial in empowering Māori men to take proactive steps in cancer prevention. Community health initiatives should focus on:
- Cancer Symptoms and Risks: Increasing awareness about the symptoms of common cancers and risk factors such as smoking, poor diet, and excessive alcohol consumption.
- Preventive Measures: Educating on the importance of regular health check-ups, cancer screenings, and vaccinations, such as the HPV vaccine to prevent certain types of cancers.
2. Encouraging Healthy Lifestyles
Promoting healthy lifestyle choices can significantly reduce cancer risks. Key areas include:
- Smoking Cessation: Smoking is a leading cause of lung cancer. Programs tailored to Māori men, incorporating cultural values and support systems, can help in reducing smoking rates.
- Healthy Diet: Encouraging a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins while reducing processed foods and red meat can lower cancer risks. Traditional Māori foods and dietary practices can be integrated into these recommendations.
- Physical Activity: Regular physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight and reduces cancer risks. Community-based sports and physical activities that resonate with Māori culture can be more engaging.
3. Improving Access to Healthcare
Addressing healthcare access barriers is essential for early detection and treatment:
- Cultural Competence in Healthcare: Training healthcare providers to understand and respect Māori cultural practices and values can improve healthcare experiences and outcomes.
- Mobile Health Services: Bringing cancer screening and diagnostic services to Māori communities can overcome geographical and logistical barriers.
- Financial Support: Providing financial assistance for healthcare services, including transportation and medical costs, can encourage timely medical consultations and follow-ups.
4. Leveraging Community and Whanau Support
Whanau (family) and community play a vital role in Māori society. Leveraging these support systems can enhance cancer prevention efforts:
- Community Leaders and Elders: Engaging respected community leaders and elders in health promotion activities can increase trust and participation in cancer prevention programs.
- Support Groups: Creating support groups for Māori men can provide emotional support and practical advice, fostering a collective approach to health and well-being.
5. Research and Data Collection
Continued research and accurate data collection are crucial in understanding cancer trends among Māori men and developing effective interventions – which is why we must invest more:
- Community-Based Research: Involving Māori communities in research ensures that studies are culturally relevant and respectful.
- Data Transparency: Regularly publishing data on cancer rates and outcomes among Māori men can highlight areas needing attention and drive policy changes.
Cancer prevention among Māori men requires a multifaceted approach that respects cultural values, addresses socioeconomic challenges, and improves healthcare access. By raising awareness, promoting healthy lifestyles, enhancing healthcare services, and leveraging community support, we can work towards reducing cancer disparities and improving the overall health and well-being of Māori men. It is a call to action for healthcare providers, policymakers, and communities to collaborate and ensure that Māori men receive the care and support they need to lead healthy, cancer-free lives.
Radio Waatea and its board would like to advise that the opinions expressed in this article are those of Matthew Tukaki and not necessarily the views of Radio Waatea, its Management or its Board. Matthew is also the former Chairman of Suicide Prevention Australia and Director of the New Zealand Governments National Suicide Prevention Office. Matthew was also Chair of Australias National Suicide Prevention Coalition.
