The link between viral hepatitis and one of Australia's deadliest cancers
Liver cancer deaths in Queensland have more than doubled since the 1980s, rising from 1.6 to 5.1 deaths per 100,000 people between 1980 and 2022. Chronic hepatitis B and C, which affect an estimated 50,000 Queenslanders, are responsible for around half of all liver cancer cases. Health advocates are urging increased testing and treatment access, particularly for high-risk populations, to combat the growing burden of viral hepatitis and prevent liver cancer.
- ▪Liver cancer deaths in Queensland rose from 1.6 per 100,000 in the 1980s to 5.1 per 100,000 between 2018 and 2022.
- ▪An estimated 50,000 Queenslanders are living with chronic hepatitis B or C, which cause approximately half of all liver cancer cases.
- ▪Chronic viral hepatitis can lead to liver scarring, liver cancer, and the need for organ transplantation, as seen in the case of Dave Clune.
- ▪Hepatitis Queensland is advocating for expanded testing and treatment programs, especially for high-risk and marginalized groups.
- ▪Stigma around hepatitis has led to social discrimination, including children being barred from playing together due to a parent's diagnosis.
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Queenslanders urged to get tested for viral hepatitis after liver cancer deaths triple since 1980sJBy Janelle MilesEBy Emma PollardStatelineTopic:HealthWed 29 Apr 2026 at 5:34amWed 29 Apr 2026 at 5:34amWed 29 Apr 2026 at 5:34amIn short:A new report has revealed Queensland liver cancer deaths have risen from 1.6 deaths per 100,000 population in the 1980s to 5.1 in 2018–2022.It is estimated almost 50,000 Queenslanders are living with chronic hepatitis B or C, which are responsible for around half of liver cancer cases.What's next?Health advocates are calling for improved access to viral hepatitis treatment for high-risk groups.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at ABC News (Australia).