Cancer is the leading cause of death in New Zealand. The number of those affected is forecast to increase for the foreseeable future. Our cancer survival rates in New Zealand currently lag behind those of Australia, our most vulnerable populations continue to experience poorer outcomes from cancer than other New Zealanders and the costs of cancer care keep on increasing exponentially.
The C3 research group actively works with key stakeholders to advocate for and develop a vision for long-term cancer control specific to the needs of Aotearoa New Zealand.
Key activities
- We co-hosted the landmark 'Cancer Care at a Crossroads' conference held in January 2019, with the Cancer Society of New Zealand. This event galvanised the sector and resulted in the development of a new National Cancer Plan.
- Our research projects are generally directed toward influencing cancer service planning. Recent examples include our examination of the impact of COVID-19 on cancer care and outcomes, and our work projecting future cancer incidence in Aotearoa New Zealand out to 2044 (see Projects below).
- Members of the C3 team were directly involved in the development of the national Cancer Action Plan 2019–2029, including successfully advocating for the inclusion of a goal to achieve cancer equity for Māori by the year 2030.
View the New Zealand Cancer Action Plan 2019–2029 on the Ministry of Health website - Members of the C3 team are now involved at multiple levels of Te Aho o Te Kahu – Cancer Control Agency, including direct involvement with the agency’s current work.
- Current and former members of the C3 team are also involved in multiple national-level committees and/or hold public service roles that allow our work to influence central decision-making around cancer control and service planning.
Projects
- Cancer Care at a Crossroads Conference
- Impact of COVID-19 on cancer care and outcomes
- Projections of cancer incidence, 2020-2044