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Enlisting “Aunties” to support Indigenous pregnant women to stop smoking: Feasibility study results

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Summary:

This feasibility project tested the effectiveness of using Māori voluntary community health workers (“Aunties”) to identify and reach Māori pregnant women who smoke and provide cessation support. The majority of women were Māori, 20–30 years old, had their first cigarette within 30 minutes of waking and 58% had not tried to quit during the current pregnancy. Of the participants who completed a follow-up interview, 33% had stopped smoking while they were pregnant and 57% had cut down. At the follow-up interviews, the number of women who had used cessation support or products was increased from baseline.

Comment:
Great to see the ‘Aunties’ being recognised for their role in health promotion and care. I understand that the Aunties were paid in this research project. It would be great if there was more formal support (such as income or training) for the countless Aunties out there who are supporting our whānau, without losing the essence of their knowledge and practice.
Reference: Nicotine Tob Res. 2016;18(5):1110-5
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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