Summarised by Centrist
The Government’s decision to lower the bowel cancer screening age to 58 for all New Zealanders has been met with backlash from Māori health advocates, who wanted targeted screening for Māori and Pacific men from age 50.
Health Minister Simeon Brown defended the policy, arguing that broadening access based on need rather than race ensures fairness and will save lives. ACT leader David Seymour echoed this, saying the move aligns with the party’s stance against race-based healthcare.
Despite the expansion, critics claim the policy does not go far enough in addressing disparities. Māori and Pacific men are more likely to be diagnosed with bowel cancer at younger ages and more advanced stages. Professor Sue Crengle of Bowel Cancer NZ argued that earlier screening for these groups would reduce preventable deaths. Dr Ros Pochin of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons acknowledged the merit of universal screening but noted that Māori and Pasifika face unique risks.
Hāpai Te Hauora CEO Jacqui Harema warned that removing targeted funding for Māori and Pacific initiatives could lead to continued late diagnoses. Hei Āhuru Mōwai chairman Nina Scott went as far as calling the decision “institutionalised racism.”
While critics push for race-based screening, the government has opted for an approach that expands access across the board.
Whether this universal model delivers better health outcomes will be tested as the new screening age takes effect in 2026.
