Indigenous adolescent health in Aotearoa New Zealand

Making Education Easy

Authors:

Clark TC et al.

May 27, 2022

Summary:

Cross-sectional surveys of New Zealand secondary school students, undertaken between 2001 and 2019, have found persistent Māori disadvantage for health indicators compared with Pākehā. While rangatahi Māori reported significant health gains over the survey period, the prevalence of depressive symptoms increased from 13.8% in 2012 to 27.9% in 2019 (relative risk 2.01, 95% CI 1.65-2.46). Rangatahi Māori were also more likely to report racism and foregone healthcare compared with Pākehā youth. However, tobacco use inequities narrowed between the two groups over the study period. The study authors concluded that age-appropriate Indigenous strategies are required to improve health outcomes and reduce inequities for rangatahi Māori.

Comment:

Love this paper as it not only provides good data to monitor the wellbeing of rangatahi, but also a sense of hope for rangatahi oranga. Getting the environment right, for rangatahi to flourish, is key.

Reference: Lancet Reg Health West Pac. 2022;28:100554.

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.