The link between viral hepatitis and one of Australia's deadliest cancers
Liver cancer deaths in Queensland have more than tripled since the 1980s, rising from 1.6 to 5.1 deaths per 100,000 people, with chronic hepatitis B and C responsible for about half of cases. Nearly 50,000 Queenslanders are estimated to live with viral hepatitis, many undiagnosed, particularly in high-risk and marginalized communities. Health advocates are urging expanded testing, culturally safe care, and better access to treatment to curb the growing toll. A new report calls for targeted interventions, including outreach in remote areas and prisons, to address disparities and prevent further deaths.
- ▪Queensland liver cancer deaths rose from 1.6 per 100,000 in the 1980s to 5.1 per 100,000 in 2018–2022.
- ▪An estimated 48,000 Queenslanders are living with chronic hepatitis B or C, with 20–30% undiagnosed.
- ▪Indigenous Queenslanders experience 2.5 times the liver cancer incidence and worse survival rates compared to the general population.
- ▪Hepatitis B and C are responsible for around half of all liver cancer cases in Queensland.
- ▪Advocates are calling for expanded, equitable access to testing, treatment, and culturally safe healthcare to meet Australia’s 2030 hepatitis elimination goal.
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Queenslanders urged to get tested for viral hepatitis after liver cancer deaths triple since 1980sJBy Janelle MilesEBy Emma PollardStatelineTopic:Health27m ago27 minutes agoTue 28 Apr 2026 at 7:34pmIn 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).