Analyses comparing Māori with the non-Māori non-Pacific population
The following information and graphs further describe the use by Māori of lipid-modifying agents (nearly all statins) to treat raised or deranged cholesterol levels, and then low dose aspirin to prevent thrombosis (Glossary description: Thrombosis is the formation of a blood clot (thrombus) inside a blood vessel, obstructing the flow of blood through the circulatory system. When a blood vessel is injured, the body uses platelets and fibrin to form a blood clot, because the first step in repairing it (hemostasis) is to prevent loss of blood. If that mechanism causes too much clotting, and the clot breaks free, an embolus is formed.) (blood clots), ACE inhibitors for raised blood pressure and diabetes (Glossary description: Diabetes is a syndrome of disordered metabolism, usually due to a combination of hereditary and environmental causes, resulting in abnormally high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia).) risk, and medicines to treat diabetes. The analyses compare Māori with the non-Māori non-Pacific (nMnP) populations for the calendar year 2007, and derive from recent in-house analysis performed or commissioned by PHARMAC staff, available on request from PHARMAC. Note that they describe comparative prescription levels only, with no adjustments for relative need.