The management of breast cancer risk in HDGC whānui o Ngāi Tahu

The management of breast cancer risk in HDGC whānui o Ngāi Tahu

Gemella Reynolds-Hatem (Ngāi Tūāhuriri, Ngāti Hāteatea, Ngāti Waewae - Ngāi Tahu)

University of Otago, Dunedin

Māori Cancer Researcher Awards – Masters Scholarship

My work is focused on improving outcomes for Ngāi Tahu whakapapa impacted by the CDH1 mutation, particularly breast cancer in our wahine. I aim to incorporate a tikanga Māori approach into my scientific research by testing specific drugs (capivasertib and fulsvestrant) to see if they can stop tumour growth in CDH1 cancer models. Additionally, I will engage with whānau at Tuahiwi through wānanga, integrating tikanga and Māori cultural practices. My goal is to ensure the health care system better serves our people and provides a space for our people to talk about their mamae. I will also find ways to advocate for our mamae in both the science and social science setting as tauira Māori.

Mō tātou, ā, mō kā uri ā muri ake nei.

For us and our children after us.