Abstract
Aim: To respond to health inequities, our study surveyed Pacific women living in Aotearoa New Zealand to gauge their understanding and research preferences of gynaecological cancers.
Methods: Participants were recruited via a nationwide non-governmental organisation (PACIFICA Inc.). Consenting adult Pacific women completed a questionnaire, providing socio-demographic data, health provider preferences, cancer research interests and gynaecological cancer knowledge, with a special focus on ovarian cancer. This cross-sectional study used the principles of Pacific co-design, with quantitative and thematic analytics.
Results: All participants (n=94) identified with at least one Pacific group and reflected the Pacific population of Aotearoa's demographics. Top research priorities were cancer prevention and early detection. Knowledge of gynaecological cancers was poor. Few participants could identify symptoms or treatments of ovarian cancer. Maintaining quality of life was of highest importance. Although most participants consulted mainstream healthcare providers, many considered consultation with Taulasea (traditional healers) or alternative healthcare practitioners. Thematic analysis of free-text answers identified three main themes: lack of health literacy, cultural responsiveness and holistic therapies.
Conclusions: This is the largest survey to date for Pacific women's understanding of and priorities for gynaecological cancer, identifying significant gaps in cancer knowledge and guiding future cancer research in Aotearoa.