Hauora Maori - Group Report Existence of Health Inequalities

Task 1 - Existence of Health Inequalities

Factors contributing to health inequalities:

In New Zealand, as per the statistical evidence, approximately 887,493 individuals are identified as the Maori population, thus constituting nearly 17.8% of the total population (Ehinz, 2025). Evidence informed that Maori Wahine (women) are more likely (21%) to be diagnosed with “breast cancer”, while 30% of the population experienced a late diagnosis.

●   Socioeconomic Factors - Some major attributes of this factor are income inequality, employment conditions and housing issues. Tin Tin et al., (2018) explained that neighbourhood conditions are more likely to increase ethnic disparities in the breast cancer treatment for Maori Wahine. This indicates a housing issue, although income inequality and unemployment decline accessibility to healthcare services.

●   Service Accessibility and Relevance - As already noted, poor income status is a major contributor to inadequate access to diagnosis and treatment of the cancer. Boyle et al., (2024) explained that Maori women experience a dilemma in accessing advanced treatment such as radiotherapy, conserving surgery and early diagnosis. This increases the risk of early mortality.

●   Systemic and Structural Factors - Structural and systemic challenges are another concerning factor in leveraging healthcare services and early diagnosis by Maori women. Carlos et al., (2022) explained that institutional racism and disproportionate conditions potentially contribute to an increased rate of breast cancer among Maori women.

Cultural and Whanau Factors - Cultural challenges in New Zealand have been identified as a predominant factor contributing to health inequities for breast cancer. 

According to Wu et al., (2023) cultural factors such as stigma create major barriers for Maori women in New Zealand in accessing breast cancer treatment and early diagnosis.