HI HCR200

Designates February of each year as Liver and Bile Duct Cancer Awareness Month in Hawaii beginning in 2020.

Identifies that Hawaii has the highest death rate of liver and bile duct cancer in the nation, with 33 percent higher incidence than the national average and approximately 184 new cases annually.

Notes that Asian and Pacific Islanders have the highest risk for diagnosis and that annual incidence increased 2.1 percent in males and 1.3 percent in females from 2004 to 2013.

Highlights liver flukes found in raw or undercooked freshwater fish and vegetables, and aflatoxins from improperly stored foods as potential cancer risk factors present in Hawaii's environment and diet.

Urges the Department of Health, University of Hawaii Cancer Center, American Cancer Society, and county governments to promote public awareness and education about liver and bile duct cancer risks.