This discussion of colorectal, prostate and stomach cancer in Māori illustrates selected issues that impact on cancer care. Evidence relating to colorectal cancer illustrates the importance of accurate cancer statistics to focus management strategies. The paper details how prostate cancer in Māori is an area where cultural factors impact on care delivery. The focus on sporadic stomach cancer in New Zealand shows how subclassification of different types of cancer can be important and illustrates the breadth of putative causal factors. An overview of developments in hereditary gastric cancer in New Zealand in the last 15 years demonstrates how successful clinical and research partnerships can improve patient outcomes. For example, the marae-based Kimi Hauora Health Clinic in the Western Bay of Plenty provides support to cancer patients, mutation carriers and their families, helping them navigate the interface with the many healthcare professionals involved in the multidisciplinary care of cancer patients.
