Aotearoa’s Professor Bev Lawton Champions Cervical Cancer Elimination

Professor Bev Lawton ONZM is leading a transformative initiative in New Zealand aimed at eliminating cervical cancer. As the founder and director of Te Tātai Hauora o Hine (National Centre for Women’s Health Research Aotearoa) at Victoria University of Wellington, Lawton has dedicated her career to improving women’s health outcomes and addressing disparities within the healthcare system.

Reflecting on her journey, Lawton credits her formative years as a general practitioner (GP) for shaping her approach to health research. “Becoming a doctor was a privilege,” she says, noting the importance of listening to patients and learning from their experiences. Her motivation to delve into research was sparked by observing inequities in treatment within the healthcare system, prompting her to seek solutions.

Inspiration and Challenges

One of Lawton’s significant influences is the late Dame Tariana Turia, a prominent advocate for Māori health. Lawton admires Turia’s focus on empowering families and communities, emphasizing that every day presents an opportunity for change. This ethos drives Lawton and her team as they strive to transform healthcare systems to minimize preventable harm and deaths.

Lawton often references the Perinatal and Maternal Mortality Review Committee (PMMRC) report, a crucial resource that highlights the need for urgent reforms in New Zealand’s maternity care. “The information presented in the report underscores the ongoing challenges we face,” she explains. The persistent lack of action on prior recommendations has resulted in avoidable harm, particularly affecting pregnant families.

As a leader, Lawton believes in the power of building relationships to foster a positive work culture. “If any toxicity arises, I focus on connecting people and creating an environment where they feel valued,” she states. She emphasizes the importance of having the right team in place to facilitate meaningful change.

Vision for the Future

When discussing the broader implications of wealth and responsibility, Lawton acknowledges the existence of billionaires and their potential impact on society. “Billionaires have the power to drive significant change,” she notes. If she were in a position of vast wealth, Lawton expresses a desire to eliminate cervical cancer in less than a decade.

“We know how to achieve this,” she asserts, explaining that while financial resources are necessary, effective leadership and community partnerships are equally crucial. With collective effort, she believes that preventable harm and death from cervical cancer could be eradicated, similar to the global fight against polio.

Lawton envisions a future where no woman or person with a cervix faces the threat of cervical cancer. “A national announcement of a cervical cancer elimination plan would be life-changing,” she states. For Lawton, this goal represents success not just for individual health, but for the entire community.

Recognized for her significant contributions to women’s health, Lawton was named Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year this year. Her pioneering work, including New Zealand’s transition to HPV self-testing as the primary method for cervical screening, has positioned Aotearoa as a leader in health innovation.

As she continues her mission, Lawton remains steadfast in her commitment to improving health outcomes. “We have the knowledge and resources to make a difference,” she affirms, inspiring others to join the cause. With her leadership, Aotearoa moves closer to a future free from cervical cancer.