Mana Wāhine: Supporting Cervical Cancer Screening for Women in Tamaki nui-ā-Rua
Cervical cancer is a significant health concern, and Te Kete Hauora o Rangitāne, a healthcare organization in Tamaki nui-ā-Rua, is working diligently to provide support and screening services for women in the region. This week, we shine a spotlight on their Mana Wāhine – Cervical Screening Support Service, which aims to ensure that key priority group women have access to and participate in cervical cancer screening activities.
The service primarily focuses on women who identify as Māori or Pasifika, as well as those of any ethnicity who have never engaged in screening activities or have not been screened in more than five years. By targeting these priority groups, Te Kete Hauora o Rangitāne aims to bridge existing gaps in cervical cancer screening and promote early detection and treatment.
Keshaan Te Waaka and Katarina Cooper, dedicated members of the healthcare team, are at the forefront of this initiative. Keshaan is passionate about improving the health outcomes of all women in Tamaki nui-ā-Rua, particularly Māori women who have a strong connection to the local culture and heritage. Katarina, based in the Horowhenua area, empowers women to take control of their health and emphasizes the importance of regular screening for the entire whānau (family).
Their efforts align with the inspiring story of Talei Morrison, who became a champion of women’s health after being diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2017. Although Talei tragically passed away in 2018, her legacy lives on through the Smear Your Mea campaign, which she and her whānau established. This campaign raises awareness, educates, advocates, and empowers Māori women and their families about the significance of cervical cancer screening. Every year on August 30, National Smear Your Mea Day commemorates Talei’s commitment to this cause.
Importantly, cervical screening has proven to save lives by preventing cancer or detecting it early, when treatment is more manageable. Since the implementation of screening programs, overall death rates from cervical cancer have decreased significantly. However, it is essential to address the disparities that still exist, especially among Māori populations. Cervical cancer diagnoses are more than twice as common in Māori communities, and cancer-related deaths are 2.5 times higher in comparison to non-Māori populations.
Given our aging population, the number of people impacted by cancer is expected to rise by 46% by 2040. Emphasizing the importance of regular cervical cancer screening and promoting accessible support services like Mana Wāhine – Cervical Screening Support is vital in ensuring the well-being of women in Tamaki nui-ā-Rua and beyond.
If you or someone you know would like to access these cancer services or require more information about cervical screening support or general cancer support, reach out to Te Kete Hauora o Rangitāne via phone at 06 374 6860 or email at info@rangitane.co.nz. Alternatively, you can visit their office at 10 Gordon St, Dannevirke. Together, we can work towards a future where all women have equitable access to life-saving screening services.
