Cancer Immunotherapy: knowledge translation and outreach education

Abstract

Abstract It is recognised that Pacific peoples living in New Zealand in the Pacific are affected disproportionately by some cancers with the burden of cancer overall remaining a significant health concern. These communities stand to benefit from research that will contribute to improvements in health outcomes. Community engagement activities and knowledge translation efforts that involve research findings of relevance to Pasifika populations are of importance in supporting the dissemination of knowledge and dialogue. Limited attempts however have been made to communicate major scientific research findings to the Pasifika audience in a manner that is culturally appropriate, clear and meaningful. The purpose of this work was to host a knowledge translation event to present research of direct relevance and importance to Pasifika communities that included a major compartment dedicated to increasing clarity and awareness of emerging cancer immunotherapeutic based strategies for treating cancer. This event was well attended by members of the Pasifika community that included health leaders and representatives, families, scientists, students, academics, health researchers, community representatives and other interested parties. Verbal and written feedback highlighted the programme overall was highly evaluated by those who were in attendance. This knowledge translation and science communication event successfully facilitated engagement and open dialogue with Pasifika members of the health workforce community that included raising awareness of immunotherapeutic strategies for cancer.