Covid-19 could be highlighting issues around lung cancer diagnoses in New Zealand

In a report warning of growing racial inequality, the Cancer Control Agency fears lung cancer symptoms in Maori aren't being picked up because they're only being tested for Covid-19.

It shows a drop in Maori lung cancer rates, but an increase for Pakeha.

Agency public health physician Elinor Millar says there were already issues with the diagnosis pathway ... but it's been exacerbated by the virus.

She says it's critical anyone with in an emergency department with lung cancer symptoms is appropriately tested and diagnosed.