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Blood cancer incidence, mortality and survival for Māori in New Zealand

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From Māori Health Review Issue 111
Authors:
  • Clough S et al.
Summary:

Ethnic disparities are apparent for incidence, mortality and survival of blood cancers, according to a study of the New Zealand Cancer Registry (2007 2019) and national mortality records. Blood cancers in 2653 Māori and 20,458 Europeans were identified. Incidence and mortality rates for leukaemia and myeloma were higher in Māori than Europeans. Cancer-specific survival outcomes were poorer for Māori vs Europeans across most blood cancer types, with age- and sex-adjusted hazard ratios of 1.77 (95% CI 1.57-2.00) for leukaemia, 1.18 (95% CI 0.65-2.16) for Hodgkin lymphoma,1.71 (95% CI 1.50-1.95) for non-Hodgkin lymphoma and 1.40 (95% CI 1.19-1.64) for myeloma.

Comment:
The survival disparities between Māori and non-Māori observed here are consistent with other Indigenous peoples with blood cancer, and importantly for 23 of the 24 most common cancers in Aotearoa. Unequal detection and screening, and unequal treatment, are the most likely drivers, though others specific to blood cancers must be considered. Finally, although the results are disappointing, what is uplifting is the number of Māori and Pacific Admission Scheme graduates/Māori leaders heading this important research and contributing to healthcare in Aotearoa!
Reference: Cancer Epidemiol. 2024;93:102656.
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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