Improving survival disparities in cervical cancer between Maori and non-Maori women in New Zealand: a national retrospective cohort study

Objective: Maori women in New Zealand have higher incidence of and mortality from cervical cancer than non-Maori women, however limited research has examined differences in treatment and survival between these groups This study aims to determine if ethnic disparities in treatment and survival exist among a cohort of Maori and non-M5on women with cervical cancer Methods: A retrospective cohort study of 1911 women (344 Won and 1567 non-Maori) identified from the New Zealand Cancer Register with cervical cancer (adenocarcinoma, adenosquamous or squamous cell carcinoma) between 1 January 1996 and 31 December 2006 Results: Maori women with cervical cancer had a higher receipt of total hysterectomies, and similar receipt of radical hysterectomies and brachytherapy as primary treatment, compared to non-Maori women (age and stage adjusted) Over the cohort period, Maori women had poorer cancer specific survival than non-Maori women (mortality hazard ratio (HR) 2 07, 95% confidence interval (Cl) 1 63-2 62) From 1996 to 2005, the survival for Maori improved significantly relative to non-Maori Conclusion: Maori continue to have higher incidence and mortality than non-Maori from cervical cancer although disparities are improving Survival disparities are also improving Treatment (as measured) by ethnicity is similar Implications: Primary prevention and early detection remain key interventions for addressing Maori needs and reducing inequalities in cervical cancer in New Zealand