Home > Review Articles > Lung cancer > The use of blood biomarkers in lung cancer screening in Aotearoa New Zealand: a cross-sectional survey of Māori perspectives and preferences

The use of blood biomarkers in lung cancer screening in Aotearoa New Zealand: a cross-sectional survey of Māori perspectives and preferences

Making Education Easy

From Māori Health Review Issue 121
Authors:
  • Colhoun S et al.
Summary:

A cross-sectional survey of Māori found that participants generally supported using blood samples in lung cancer screening, but there were some regional differences. Survey participants were potential lung cancer “screenees” and their whānau from Te Tai Tokerau and Tāmaki Makaurau. Overall, most participants (83.7% screenees; 81.4%
whānau) were at least “comfortable” donating blood, although participants from Te Tai Tokerau were less comfortable than those from Tāmaki Makaurau. Clear information about blood use, protecting the health of future generations, and being able to consent to specific uses were identified as key priorities for using blood samples in lung cancer screening.

Comment:
From Te Tai Tokerau myself, I was both fascinated and unfortunately not surprised with the regional differences described here – they reflect longstanding issues in access, trust and negative experiences with the health system in Te Norta. However, peoples’ rights to the best healthcare and outcomes, particularly given higher lung cancer rates and deaths, mean that further work to address these issues is necessary.
Reference: N Z Med J. 2026;139(1633):76-92.
Abstract
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Independent commentary by Dr. Matire Hardwood

Dr Matire Harwood (Ngapuhi) has worked in Hauora Māori, primary health and rehabilitation settings as clinician and researcher since graduating from Auckland Medical School in 1994. She also holds positions on a number of boards, committees and advisory groups including the Health Research Council. Matire lives in Auckland with her whānau including partner Haunui and two young children Te Rangiura and Waimarie.

Research Review publications are intended for New Zealand health professionals.

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