Home > Review Articles > Improving survival disparities in cervical cancer between Māori and non-Māori women in New Zealand: a national retrospective cohort study

Improving survival disparities in cervical cancer between Māori and non-Māori women in New Zealand: a national retrospective cohort study

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Authors:
Summary:

These researchers sought to determine if ethnic disparities in treatment and survival exist among a cohort of Māori (n=344) and non-Māori women (n=1567) with cervical cancer (adenocarcinoma, adenosquamous or squamous cell carcinoma) who were retrospectively identified from the New Zealand Cancer Register between 1 January 1996 and 31 December 2006. Inequalities in incidence and mortality decreased over time. Over the cohort period, Māori women were more likely to have poorer cancer-specific survival than non-Māori women (mortality hazard ratio 2.07). However, from 1996 to 2005, the survival for Māori improved significantly relative to non-Māori. Māori women with cervical cancer had a higher receipt of total hysterectomies, and similar receipt of radical hysterectomies and brachytherapy as primary treatment, compared to non-Māori women (age and stage adjusted).

Comment:
We have reported this study in a previous issue of the Review but I thought it useful to provide the published reference. Disparities between Māori and non-Māori for cervical cancer, although improving with time in most areas (incidence, survival and treatment), do persist. Prevention (through HPV vaccination) and early detection (through regular smears) of cervical cancer in Māori and Pacific women are priorities at the PHO I work at; I expect this will benefit all women and whānau.
Reference: Aust N Z J Public Health. 2010;34(2):193-9.
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.

Disclaimer: This publication is not intended as a replacement for regular medical education but to assist in the process. The reviews are a summarised interpretation of the published study and reflect the opinion of the writer rather than those of the research group or scientific journal. It is suggested readers review the full trial data before forming a final conclusion on its merits.

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