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Small numbers, big challenges: adolescent and young adult cancer incidence and survival in New Zealand

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From Māori Health Review Issue 68
Authors:
  • Ballantine KR et al.
Summary:

These researchers analysed data from 1606 registrations of 15–24-yearolds in New Zealand diagnosed with a new primary malignant tumour between 2000 and 2009. Cancer incidence was 228.6 per million for adolescents aged 15–19 years and 325.7 per million for young adults aged 20–24 years. While overall incidence rates were consistent across all ethnic groups, the analysis identified unique ethnic differences by tumour group. Māori had a higher incidence of bone tumours, carcinoma of the gastrointestinal tract and gonadal germ cell tumours, Pacific peoples had a higher incidence of leukaemia, and non-Māori/non-Pacific peoples had a higher incidence of melanoma. Five-year relative survival for adolescents (75.1%) and the entire cohort overall (80.6%) appeared to be worse compared with other high-income countries. Māori (69.5%) and Pacific (71.3%) adolescents and young adults had lower 5-year survival compared with non-Māori/non-Pacific peoples (84.2%).

Comment:
Evidence to date has tended to focus on inequities in cancer rates and outcomes for the very young and adult groups. Often neglected in epidemiological studies, Māori adolescents with cancer appear to have very different types of cancer (and those working with Māori communities should pay heed to bone, gastrointestinal and testicular symptoms) and poorer survival (which is of particular concern given the potential for remission in these types of cancer).
Reference: J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol. 2017;6(2):277-85
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.

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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