A major University of Otago - Ōtākau Whakaihu Waka study has found significant gaps in Pacific women's knowledge of gynaecological cancers, despite these cancers having a disproportionately high impact on Pacific communities in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Professor Gabi Dachs
The nationwide survey of 94 Pacific women is the largest study of its kind undertaken in New Zealand and highlights an urgent need for better health education, culturally appropriate resources and more responsive cancer care.
The research, carried out at the Faculty of Medicine - Christchurch Ōtautahi, and published in today's New Zealand Medical Journal, found most participants were unable to identify key symptoms or treatments for ovarian cancer, even though early detection can dramatically improve survival rates.
Participants identified cancer prevention, early detection and maintaining quality of life as their highest priorities for future cancer research and care.
Senior author Professor Gabi Dachs says the findings expose a serious health inequity.
"Pacific women carry a greater burden of gynaecological cancers than many other groups in Aotearoa, yet our study shows many are not receiving the information they need to recognise symptoms early or navigate the healthcare system confidently.
"Early diagnosis of ovarian cancer can make a substantial difference to survival, but women must first know what to look for and where to seek help," she says.
Limited awareness of symptoms and treatments
The study found that more than half of participants could identify fewer than three ovarian cancer symptoms, and fewer than one-third could name a treatment such as surgery, chemotherapy or radiotherapy.
Knowledge of other gynaecological cancers was also limited. While most women recognised ovarian and cervical cancer, fewer than one in five identified uterine cancer, despite Pacific women experiencing markedly higher rates of the disease than New Zealand Europeans.
Lead author Dr Alex Tino says many participants told researchers they felt disconnected from cancer information and research.
"Women repeatedly spoke about a lack of accessible, culturally relevant information. They wanted resources in Pacific languages, stronger community engagement and healthcare that recognises the realities of Pacific families and cultures.
"This wasn't just about medical facts. Women talked about feeling unseen in the cancer system and wanting their stories and experiences to be heard," she says.
Quality of life matters most
When asked about priorities for ovarian cancer care, maintaining quality of life ranked above all other concerns, including longevity.
Cost of treatment and avoiding becoming a burden on family were also major considerations.
Professor Dachs says these findings reflect the broader social and economic pressures many Pacific families face.
"For many women, the conversation is not only about surviving cancer. It is also about preserving dignity, independence and family wellbeing throughout treatment," she says.
Interest in holistic and traditional care
The survey found that while more than 90 per cent of participants used mainstream healthcare providers such as doctors and nurses, many said they would also consider consulting Taulasea (traditional healers) or other complementary practitioners.
Researchers say this highlights the importance of recognising spirituality and holistic approaches within Pacific models of health.
"Pacific health is often understood as encompassing physical, spiritual, family and cultural dimensions, therefore acknowledging those perspectives may help improve engagement with cancer services and screening programmes," Dr Tino says.
Need for culturally grounded education
The researchers say improving health literacy is one of the most important steps toward reducing cancer inequities.
Participants reported barriers such as information being difficult to access, available only online, or not provided in their first language.
Professor Dachs says the findings should help guide future cancer research and public health initiatives.
"This study gives Pacific women a voice in shaping the future of gynaecological cancer research in Aotearoa. The message is clear: prevention, early detection and culturally responsive care must be at the centre of our efforts.
"If we want equitable cancer outcomes, we need education and healthcare services that are designed with Pacific communities, not simply delivered to them."
