HONOLULU (KHON2) -- In a significant finding during Liver Cancer Awareness Month, the Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) has released a report indicating that hepatitis C is associated with premature deaths in the state. Get Hawaii's latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You Titled “Premature Deaths and Disparities Associated with Hepatitis C: The Hawaii Hepatitis C Mortality Report,” the study analyzed mortality data from 2000 to 2021 to shed light on the impact of hepatitis C on local communities. This comprehensive report reveals some striking statistics: Residents with hepatitis C tend to die at a younger age than the general population, with 88% not reaching the age of 75—well below the U.S. life expectancy of 2021. More than 40% of those who died from hepatitis C-related causes passed away before reaching the average retirement age of 65, compared to 23% for all causes of death. On a positive note, death rates from hepatitis C in Hawai‘i were lower than the national average from 2017 to 2020, with 2.63 deaths per 100,000 residents versus 3.45 per 100,000 nationally in 2020. However, disparities were noted among male and white residents. Revolutionary City-State program uses architecture, neuroscience to heal trauma of homelessness “To prevent unnecessary deaths, we need to take action,” said State Health Director Dr. Kenneth Fink. “Hepatitis C-related deaths are preventable. Although we've made strides, there are still people dying from a curable infection. We are committed to partnering with organizations like Hep Free Hawai‘i to eliminate this disease.” The report recommends measures such as universal reflex testing and improved access to curative medications to combat hepatitis C in Hawaii. It also emphasizes the importance of gathering population-based data to share insights with community partners. This initiative is part of “Hep Free 2030,” a statewide strategy aimed at eliminating viral hepatitis in Hawai‘i by 2030, developed in collaboration with Hep Free Hawai‘i and over 160 community stakeholders. For those looking for hepatitis C screening and treatment resources, visit Hep Free Hawaii. Additional training for local providers can be found at Hepatitis C Training. Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news To read the full report, visit DOH’s website.