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Te Pu Korokoro: Improving the physical health of Māori with psychosis

Year:
2021
Duration:
39 months
Approved budget:
$1,199,991.92
Researchers:
Professor Richard Porter
,
Professor Suzanne Pitama
,
Dr Jenni Manuel
,
Dr Ruth Cunningham
,
Professor Dr Sue Crengle
,
Dr Helen Lockett
,
Dr Maira Patu
,
Mr Mau Te Rangimarie Clark
,
Dr Andre McLachlan
,
Dr Waikaremoana Waitoki
,
Dr Nathan Monk
Host:
University of Otago
Health issue:
Mental health (and sleep disorders)
Proposal type:
Māori Health Project
Lay summary
People with psychosis have a considerably shortened life expectancy of up to 20 years when compared to the general population. Poor cardiometabolic health is a main contributory factor, which is a result of both treatment and reduced access to tailored behavioural support interventions. Addressing physical health disparities experienced by people with mental illness is a priority, yet, the increased disadvantage status of Māori within this mental health patient population has received limited attention. Māori are not only known to be disproportionately exposed to the risk factors for poor physical health and premature death compared to the general population, but they also experience high rates of psychotic disorders. However, the intersection between Māori ethnicity, psychosis, and physical health remains unexplored and will be investigated in a four-phase, Māori-led project.