Indigenous Aussies with hep B often have other conditions, which can lead to liver cancer

Embargoed until: Publicly released: 2023-04-07 04:00

Australia; NSW; QLD

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Many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians living with hepatitis B in Far North Queensland also have other health conditions, which can lead to a liver cancer called hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), cirrhosis, and premature death, according to Australian researchers. The incidence of these other health conditions was unclear, so the scientists surveyed 236 Indigenous people with hep B, finding 60.2% were obese, 30.9% smoked, and 24.2% were heavy drinkers, all of which contribute to the risk of developing HCC. Among 19 patients with confirmed cirrhosis, 47% were obese, 42% drank heavily, and 26.3% were smokers. Only 3.8% of the patients did not have any additional diseases on top of hep B. However, engagement with health services was high in the study group, with 82.2% engaged in hep B care. Integrating hep B care with care for these other health issues - rather than focusing on hepatitis alone - could improve health outcomes, they conclude.