A Maori-led trial of lung cancer screening is a first for New Zealand

The trial will be based at the Waitemata DHB, and try to develop a screening process that slashes the stark inequities of cancer incidences between Maori and non-Maori.

Lung cancer is the single biggest factor in the difference in life expectancy between Maori and non-Maori.

Trial leader Professor Sue Crengle says the screening programme needs to be Maori-focused from the get-go.

She says lung cancer is a major public health and equity issue in New Zealand.