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Systemic anti-cancer treatment for Māori with stage III and IV non-small cell lung cancer in Aotearoa New Zealand

  • 0Advanced Respiratory Registrar, Waikato Hospital, Hamilton, Aotearoa New Zealand.
The New Zealand Medical Journal +

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July 10, 2025

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July 10, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Systemic anti-cancer therapy (SACT) use was similar for Māori and non-Māori patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, Māori received less first-line targeted therapy, contributing to higher cancer-specific mortality.

Area Of Science

  • Oncology
  • Public Health
  • Health Equity

Background

  • Advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) disproportionately affects Māori populations.
  • Understanding disparities in systemic anti-cancer therapy (SACT) use is crucial for improving outcomes.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To compare SACT utilization between Māori and non-Māori patients with advanced NSCLC.
  • To identify factors influencing SACT use and lung cancer-specific mortality in this population.

Main Methods

  • Retrospective cohort study of advanced NSCLC patients in New Zealand (2011-2021).
  • Data sourced from the Midland Lung Cancer Registry.
  • Analysis included SACT rates, agent regimens, and mortality, comparing Māori and non-Māori cohorts.

Main Results

  • The study included 2,549 patients; 30% were Māori.
  • Overall SACT rates were similar between Māori and non-Māori (37%).
  • Māori patients were less likely to receive first-line targeted therapy (8.5% vs 16.1%) and had higher cancer-specific mortality (adjusted OR 1.19).

Conclusions

  • No difference in overall SACT use for advanced NSCLC between Māori and non-Māori was observed in the pre-immunotherapy era.
  • Lower rates of first-line targeted therapy in Māori warrant further investigation.
  • Factors beyond overall SACT use contribute to higher cancer-specific mortality in Māori patients.

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