Discussion and dissemination plans
NSU, death, cancers
CERVICAL CANCER, CANCERS
This study explores a model for implementing a high-quality, equitable HPV testing programme for cervical cancer prevention. Cervical screening utilising cytology has failed Māori and Indigenous populations worldwide [An equitable NCSP is more critical than ever before. Cervical screening coverage has decreased over the past two years due to COVID-19 [Aotearoa New Zealand’s new NCSP will be informed by this study in the following ways:Dissemination and consultation with policy makers are priorities, to bring about policy change. Ongoing communication between the study team, general practice, NSU, Northland regional hospital, laboratory and community knits together operational questions, discussions, and resolutions in real-time. An example of this consultation is the co-developed triage system being tested in this trial for the first time in Aotearoa New Zealand (The opportunities created by this study to hear from women and communities will inform clear and meaningful messaging about the new NCSP.The priorities for the dissemination of results are firstly the community, Māori health organisations and strategic organisations that have been part of the research process. The research team also has links to multidisciplinary clinical networks across the country that are interested in using the findings from this study to change practice. Results will be disseminated to a range of national Māori health organisations such as Māori Health Provider Boards and staff hui, marae committees, Māori Women’s Welfare League, National Kaitiaki group, and Te Ora, Ngā Neehi Māori, He Hono Wahine.The research team has developed, and shared, resources and study tools widely with other research teams and Indigenous researchers internationally, so all can benefit from evidence-based programme development. In addition, the findings will be published in peer reviewed journals and presented at international Indigenous forums to share and learn.The present cytology-based NCSP has been functioning for 30 years and it is crucial that changing to an HPV primary testing NCSP is fully informed and achieved without loss of coverage and follow up. If this is maintained with the more sensitive high-risk HPV test, then the NCSP will prevent more cancers and save more lives than the present cytology program. Increasing coverage with the HPV self-test will potentially contribute to a more equitable NCSP.The ultimate goal is to reduce cervical cancer incidence and death for Māori and non-Māori in Aotearoa New Zealand. The findings from this study will contribute to building a solid and equitable foundation for the new NCSP, with a particular focus on prioritising an NCSP that meets the needs of Māori.