Exclusive: Maui wildfire survivors face soaring rates of depression and lung problems – study

Preliminary results of largest study of its kind show 55% of survivors are living with depression, while 74% have respiratory issues

Rates of depression, respiratory problems and kidney abnormalities are soaring among survivors of the Maui wildfire, according to the preliminary findings from a groundbreaking study.

The University of Hawaii (UH) has partnered with community health groups to track, understand and address the impacts on health and social conditions caused by the deadliest American wildfire in more than a century, which killed 100 people and destroyed more than 2,200 buildings as it razed the historic town of Lahaina.

55% are experiencing symptoms of depression - significantly higher than the rate reported by Maui residents (33%) in a 2023 survey. Depression rates were higher among older residents, with 75% of 50-something fire survivors reporting low mood, insomnia, and poor concentration, among other symptoms. About 1.3% of participants reported recent suicidal thoughts.

74% are experiencing respiratory issues, with 49% exhibiting signs of lung obstruction and 33% experiencing compromised lung function linked to low oxygen levels.

Initial blood biomarker tests indicated that 8% to 18% of participants may have compromised kidney function.

Three out of four participants have an elevated risk of cardiovascular disease, including 21% with high blood pressure at a level that warrants medical attention.