Te Ara Whakamārama: Assessing our Current States of Health Literacy in Aotearoa and it’s Translations into our Health Outcomes

2025

Authors

Lockyer, M., Haimona-Ngawharau Taleni, M., Camp, J., Russell-Camp, T., Korohina, E., Rolleston, A.

Abstract

Aim

This study explores the role of health literacy in achieving health equity for Indigenous communities, particularly Māori. It examines the integration and application of Indigenous knowledge systems into health education and the importance of Indigenous narratives in shaping equitable health policies and practices.

Method

A narrative review of health literacy research in Aotearoa was conducted, analysing both quantitative and qualitative data. Key Māori health models were examined to understand culturally safe approaches to cardiovascular care. National health surveys were reviewed to assess trends in health literacy and its impact on cardiovascular health outcomes. Additional insights were drawn from Indigenous-led health initiatives.

Results

Findings indicate that low health literacy is a key determinant of cardiovascular health disparities among Indigenous populations, contributing to poor disease prevention, delayed treatment, and lower adherence to medical advice. Systemic barriers, including inaccessible health information, culturally inappropriate communication, and rural/remote healthcare inequities, further exacerbate disparities.

Despite these challenges, community-driven health solutions have demonstrated significant potential to improve health outcomes. The decolonisation of health literacy, through the reclamation of Indigenous knowledge systems and whānau-driven health sovereignty, is identified as a crucial step towards equity.

Conclusions

Achieving cardiovascular health equity for Indigenous communities requires a shift in healthcare research and delivery — one that prioritises Indigenous voices, integrates traditional knowledge, and fosters self-determination. Strengthening health literacy from early childhood health education to elderly care is essential for sustainable improvements in heart health. Policy and practice must be guided by Indigenous narratives to ensure culturally safe, and structurally transformative solutions that address the unique challenges faced by Indigenous and rural/remote populations

Publication Link

hhttps://www.heartlungcirc.org/article/S1443-9506(25)00384-1/fulltext