7 Jun 2012

Massey college to focus on prevention of Maori illnesses

6:33 am on 7 June 2012

A new college that focuses on the prevention of some major Maori health problems has been launched.

The College of Health at Massey University will focus on the prevention of illnesses and diseases prevalent in Maori, such as type-2 diabetes, rheumatic fever and some cancers.

Massey University Deputy Vice Chancellor Sir Mason Durie says some of these illnesses are linked to the lifestyle and socio-economic issues of many Maori.

Sir Mason says the country's way of thinking needs to change, and the health sector alone can't be relied on to fix Maori health issues.

He says the college's teachings resonate with traditional approaches in Maori culture.