Barbara Stewart
Spokesperson for Health
15 JANUARY 2015

Backing Call to Extend Breast Cancer Screening

New Zealand First supports the NZ Breast Cancer Foundation’s call for free mammogram screening to be extended to the age of 74 from 69.

“I encourage every Kiwi who believes in the importance of comprehensive health care, particularly as we age, to sign the petition by visiting the foundation’s website,” says New Zealand First Health Spokesperson Barbara Stewart.

“Every day seven women are diagnosed with breast cancer in New Zealand. It is the most common cancer diagnosis for women in New Zealand with Māori women having, on average, a 33 per cent higher incidence of breast cancer than non-Māori.

“The foundation says that Maori and Pacific women are also at greater risk of dying of breast cancer than other women.

“With 2800 New Zealand women diagnosed with breast cancer every year, and the risk of developing breast cancer increasing as we age, now is the time to act,” says Mrs Stewart.

“Recently the Australian Government committed to increasing screening to the age of 74. This is yet another example of Australians getting a better deal with healthcare while the National government flounders.

“The government must act to support New Zealanders enjoying happy and healthy lives as Seniors. This is one way National can demonstrate that it cares for the health of all Kiwis.”

ENDS

© Scoop Media