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AYA Cancer Action Plan 2020-2025

Mahere Tautapa Mate Pukupuku Taiohi

This plan was developed in response to the insight provided and obtained by the Network since its establishment. It is a collective representation of significant consumer and provider input. Within the plan, this input has been translated into specific national priorities with complementary actions to attain success and achieve optimal and equitable cancer care delivery for all young people in Aotearoa.

GOAL: By 2025 all young people diagnosed with cancer in New Zealand will have equitable access to high quality medical and supportive care regardless of where they live, their age or ethnicity.

A special mention goes to our AYA Consumer Advisory Group, an incredibly dedicated group of young people with lived experience of cancer.

Please take time to watch the video below. Our Consumer Advisory Group put this together following the cancellation of the launch event at the Ministry of Health in Wellington due to Covid-19. It provides a heartfelt explanation of what they hope the new AYA Cancer Action Plan will achieve.

WATCH HERE
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Heidi Watson

The Clinical Leader is responsible for providing clinical leadership and national oversight of the network .

Heidi is a passionate and experienced health professional with a strong clinical, education and leadership background. Her enthusiasm for, and commitment to youth health has focused on improving the outcomes of youth with cancer and chronic health conditions. Previously, Heidi held the position of AYA Cancer Nurse Specialist for Auckland District Health Board. Alongside her AYA clinical leadership role she holds a youth health academic position at the University of Auckland.

Cristal Salatas

Cristal 2025

Cristal Salatas is the Research & Data Lead for the AYA Cancer Network. She is also a PhD candidate at the University of Auckland, specialising in Perinatal Sciences. Her research utilises Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to analyse the spatial, nutritional, environmental, and socioeconomic determinants of preterm birth risk across New Zealand. Cristal’s research bridges spatial epidemiology, GeoAI-driven risk modelling, and public health policy, ensuring that geospatial insights translate into actionable healthcare solutions.

Cristal has also conducted cancer research at her alma mater (University of Florida), where she developed a successful killing assay for glioblastoma multiforme. Now, she will build on that foundation by leading research and data efforts to support adolescents and young adults facing cancer across Aotearoa.