Media release

From: Pasifika Medical Association Group

Research indicates that certain ethnic groups experience a disproportionate burden of trauma compared to others, making it a significant public health concern both globally and in Aotearoa New Zealand. Māori, as the Indigenous population of Aotearoa New Zealand, have been identified as particularly vulnerable to trauma due to historical and ongoing socio-economic disparities, along with cultural factors that contribute to higher rates of these injuries. In Aotearoa New Zealand socio-economic and ethnic differences have been noted with respect to trauma incidence, patterns, specific injuries, severity and among different age groups. Understanding these nuances is essential for designing culturally appropriate prevention and intervention strategies. The research aims to describe the ethnic variations in trauma hospitalisations in the Te Manawa Taki health region of Aotearoa New Zealand. The study also analyses the demographic characteristics of patients hospitalised due to trauma across different ethnic groups and explores disparities in injury severity, outcomes and healthcare utilisation.