The “others’ first, self-last” mindset Pacific men often abide by is costing the lives of our loved ones – and it is time to start changing the script, says general practitioner and director of Grey Lynn Family Medical Centre Dr Kavi Deo (pictured).
Having recently taken over the high needs (low cost) medical centre which provides a health care hub for a large population Pacific and Māori patients, Kavi says November is the ideal time to start evolving this traditional way of thinking.
“November (aka Movember) is men's health awareness month - a month where we take the time to reflect on our own health and focus on what we need to do to be the best physical, mental, spiritual and social version of ourselves,” Kavi says.
Originally from Labasa, Fiji, Kavi’s family migrated to Christchurch in the late 1980s.
As a Pacific GP, he knows all too well how Pacific men often prioritise themselves last.
“As Pacific men we often put our own health needs in the back burner while we navigate the challenges of day-to-day life to support our families and community.
“Movember is a reminder for our hard-working men to reflect on their own health with a particular focus on prostate health, testicular health and mental health and this starts with an open conversation with your GP.”
There is often stigma associated with discussing these topics among Pacific men, and Kavi says there is a need to normalise talanoa, by talking about health care in daily discussions.
“No formal nationwide screening is planned for these men's health topics and our men and community leaders have to take charge and seek help and guidance.”
For generations, Pacific people have faced adversity and roadblocks in Aotearoa, and communities have learnt overtime to use whatever resources there are available to provide better outcomes for their aiga and community, Kavi says.
“This takes time and sacrifice which often comes at the cost of our own health and wellbeing.
“It’s engraved in our DNA…it is part of our identity as Pacific people, however; this ideology is costing the lives of many of our loved ones and needs to evolve with the changing nature of our surroundings.”
To kickstart changing our mindsets, families and communities need to start talking about health and wellbeing at a young age, he adds.
“We need our role models in health and the wider community to remind our men we can make a greater impact if we are healthier physically and mentally.
“This starts with giving our men time and space for their own health journey.
“As male Pasifika GP's we need to work together and open our doors, specifically to these men seeking support and guidance.”
Throughout November, Kavi will be opening his doors to his Pacific brothers at his central Auckland medical clinic.
“We are dedicated to allowing better access to our hardworking men who struggle to find the time to see a GP during work hours this month.
“Our late-night session on Monday and Thursday nights are run by Pasifika Male GP's (myself and Dr Anthony Dewan), and we have blocked off our afterhours sessions to allow access for our men to seek health care.
“All GPs at our practice are reminded of the focus of the month and are encouraged to ask about testicular, prostate and mental health.”
While the Pacific GP workforce is growing, Kavi says the need for Pacific people in healthcare professions is real.
“At the end of the day we have wonderful doctors and nurses across the country but it’s those who have first-hand experience and a deep understanding of Pacific cultural beliefs who can make a big impact, to help change the health trends.”
What are you doing for Movember?
Movember is a global movement changing the face of men’s health, by addressing and creating awareness around mental health, suicide, testicular and prostate cancers.
Visit the Movember website for ways to fundraise and more information.