A Kaupapa Māori approach to a community cohort study of heart disease in New Zealand

Abstract

Objective: To report the processes and protocols that were developed in the design and implementation of the Hauora Manawa Project, a cohort study of heart disease in New Zealand and to report the participation at baseline.

Methods: This study utilised application of a Kaupapa Māori Methodology in gaining tribal and health community engagement, design of the project and random selection of participants from territorial electoral rolls, to obtain three cohorts: rural Māori, urban Māori and urban non-Māori. Logistic regression was used to model response rates.

Results: Time invested in gaining tribal and health community engagement assisted in the development and design of clear protocols and processes for the study. Response rates were 57.6%, 48.3% and 57.2%. Co-operation rates (participation among those with whom contact was established) were 74.7%, 66.6% and 71.4%.

Conclusions: Use of electoral rolls enables straightforward sampling but results in low response rates because electors have moved. Co-operation rates highlight the acceptability of this research project to the participants; they indicate the strength of Kaupapa Māori Methodologies in engaging Māori participants and community.

Implications: This study provides a model for conducting clinical/biomedical research projects that are compatible with cultural protocols and methodologies, in which the primary aim of the research was Māori health gain. Key words: Indigenous population, ethnic groups, cardiology, heart diseases