Thousands of New Zealanders may be unknowingly living with a life-threatening heart condition, prompting a new nationwide campaign to improve early detection, particularly in vulnerable communities. The Kia Manawanui Trust, also operating as “The Heart of Aotearoa,” has launched an initiative to equip GP practices and community nurses with portable ECG devices, aiming to combat the alarming rates of undiagnosed Atrial Fibrillation (AF).
AF, an irregular heartbeat that can lead to stroke and heart failure, affects an estimated 1 in 35 Kiwis aged 35-74. However, access to crucial diagnostic tools like electrocardiogram (ECG) machines is unequal across the country, with rural areas and Māori and Pacific communities disproportionately affected.
The Heart of Aotearoa’s campaign aims to raise funds for KardiaMobile ECG devices. For every $350 raised, a device, capable of detecting AF in just 30 seconds, will be provided to a GP practice or community-based specialist nurse in an underserved area.
“Too many people are missing out on life-saving heart checks because of difficulties accessing ECG machines,” says Letitia Harding, Chief Executive of The Heart of Aotearoa. “This means individuals are potentially missing out on early diagnosis and treatment that could prevent serious complications.”
The disparity in access is particularly concerning for Māori and Pacific populations, who are diagnosed with AF, on average, 10 years younger than other ethnicities. According to available data, Māori and Pacific peoples experience higher rates of cardiovascular disease overall. While specific numbers vary across different studies and regions, it is documented that cardiovascular disease contributes significantly to the life expectancy gap between Māori and non-Māori.
“Early detection of AF, which mainly affects our most vulnerable communities, can ultimately save lives,” Ms. Harding emphasizes. “This campaign is about providing a practical solution to reduce the risks associated with undiagnosed AF by speeding up access to diagnosis and treatment.”
Dr. Sarah Fairley, Medical Director of The Heart of Aotearoa and a cardiologist, highlights the urgent need for equitable access to heart healthcare. “The current reality is that access is not equal throughout the country, and there are now long waitlists for all sorts of diagnostic tests and treatments across New Zealand’s heart healthcare system.”
The campaign underscores the broader challenges facing New Zealand’s healthcare system. “Currently, our system is severely underfunded, under-resourced, and under-staffed – putting lives at risk,” Ms. Harding states. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in New Zealand, claiming the lives of thousands of New Zealanders every Year.
The Heart of Aotearoa – Kia Manawanui Trust is dedicated to improving access, equity, and outcomes for those affected by cardiovascular conditions. This fundraising campaign represents a crucial step towards achieving that goal, one ECG device at a time.
How to Help:
New Zealanders can support the campaign by donating to The Heart of Aotearoa. Every $350 raised will provide a KardiaMobile ECG device to a community in need. [Include a direct link to the donation page or instructions on how to donate].
