WCLC 2025 - Posters & ePosters-EP.04.07 Participant and Provider Experiences in an Indigenous Focused Trial of Lung Cancer Screening in Aotearoa New Zealand

EP.04.07 Participant and Provider Experiences in an Indigenous Focused Trial of Lung Cancer Screening in Aotearoa New Zealand

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This study reports on an Indigenous-focused lung cancer screening (LCS) trial led by Māori researchers in Aotearoa New Zealand, addressing the high lung cancer burden and health inequities experienced by Māori people. The aim was to assess the acceptability, participant burden, and experiences with a primary care-led invitation process for LCS, compared to a central hub model.<br /><br />Māori individuals aged 55-74 were invited to participate, completing risk assessments and, if eligible, low-dose CT scans. Surveys and interviews were conducted with participants, their whānau (family/support persons), and primary care staff to explore views at various program stages. Data were collected through multiple formats and analyzed quantitatively and thematically.<br /><br />Key findings showed the program was well received. Nearly all participants found the study well explained and risk assessments clear; 99% reported comfort during interactions with healthcare staff. While most who underwent screening expressed excitement and willingness to recommend the program, those ineligible for CT scans had mixed feelings—some relief, some disappointment. Approximately 10% who declined CT scans had varied concerns including fear of results or feeling their risk was low. Waiting times for results emerged as the main dissatisfaction. Whānau members reported positive experiences, feeling participants were treated respectfully. Primary care staff valued involvement and knowledge gained, though some found the trial more time-consuming than expected.<br /><br />Overall, the trial demonstrated a high level of cultural safety, acceptance, and satisfaction, supporting the feasibility of a culturally tailored national LCS program in NZ. Suggestions for improvement included reducing wait times for results and increasing awareness through Māori media and health providers. The findings offer important insights to help design equitable lung cancer screening programs that respect Indigenous values and improve health outcomes.

Asset Subtitle

Kate Parker

Meta Tag

Speaker Kate Parker

Topic Screening and Early Detection

Keywords

Indigenous lung cancer screening

Māori health

Aotearoa New Zealand

primary care-led invitation

low-dose CT scan

cultural safety

health inequities

participant experience

whānau involvement

lung cancer burden