A survey by the University of Otago and Cancer Society has found two-thirds of New Zealanders are willing to pay more tax – particularly if it goes towards healthcare spending.
The survey of more than 1600 participants showed public support exceeded 90% across policies for early detection, treatment and care of cancer.
Cancer Society head of advocacy and public affairs Rachael Neumann said the results showed Kiwis wanted a better publicly-funded health system.
Around 25,000 people are diagnosed with cancer each year. (Source: 1News)
"This is something that we all agree on across the political spectrum.
"These are not seen as costs but investments that deliver lasting health, social, and economic benefits for New Zealand."
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Neumann said New Zealand faces growing challenges in cancer management as the population continues to age and increase. This would drive a substantial rise in cases, placing more pressure on the health system.
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She also said persistent inequalities remained, with higher rates of cancer cases, later diagnoses and lower survival outcomes within Māori, Pacific peoples and those living in deprived areas.
"These inequities are compounded by barriers to access, differences in exposure to risk factors, and workforce and system constraints," she said.
"Together, an ageing population and entrenched inequities mean the demand for timely, equitable cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment will continue to intensify in the coming decades unless this action is taken."
Lead director of the research Professor Louise Signal said the general election provided an opportunity for parties to act on cancer policies.
"The public knows that prevention is better than cure. The good news is that at least a third of all cancers can be prevented," she said.
The leading cause of death among Kiwis can be better fought with prevention, early detection and treatment, new report says. (Source: 1News)
“It is time for politicians to listen to the voice of New Zealanders; to get on and future proof the New Zealand health system from one of its biggest killers and its biggest costs, cancer.”
The survey also revealed public support for the regulation of industry lobbying and commercial influence in policymaking.
"The public want a range of policies that are lacking in Aotearoa New Zealand. They want the tobacco reforms reinstated, sugary drinks taxes, children protected from marketing for harmful products like alcohol and junk food, stricter alcohol laws, and significantly more sun safety action," Signal said.
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