Two years after Lahaina went up in flames, many people are still facing challenges.

While much of the debris has been removed, many residents are still dealing with health issues that experts say are connected to the fires.

A new University of Hawai'i at Mānoa study found that Native Hawaiians face higher rates of accelerated biological aging compared to white and Japanese American residents.

The Maui Wildfire Exposure Cohort Study is the largest of its kind in state history. Since it launched in January 2024, University of Hawaiʻi researchers have tracked the physical and mental health of more than 2,000 adults and children.

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

A new report details respiratory ailments, mental health conditions and lack of access to medical care following the deadly fire in Lahaina in August.

Nearly half of the Maui residents affected by the fires experienced a decline in health compared to a year ago, and they continue to face difficulties accessing medical care and medications. These are just two of the findings from the most comprehensive cohort study dedicated to understanding and mitigating the impacts of the Maui wildfires.

U.S.
They survived Maui's deadly wildfires. Now many are suffering from food insecurity and deteriorating health.
By Li Cohen

May 16, 2024 / 12:44 PM EDT / CBS News

It's been nine months since deadly wildfires scorched across the Hawaiian island of Maui, killing dozens of people and leaving the historic town of Lahaina in ashes. And according to a new study, people are still feeling the effects of those fires — with many food insecure and at risk for serious health issues.

Maui fire survivors are still experiencing high rates of physical and mental illnesses, along with food, housing and job insecurity.

A new University of Hawaii study is shining a spotlight on the potential for long-term health concerns among Maui wildfire survivors. Nearly 700 participants from West Maui and Upcountry took part in the study.

Six months after the devastating Maui wildfires, many survivors are suffering from depression, poor health and financial struggles, according to researchers from the University of Hawaii at Manoa.

Hawaii lawmakers are being asked to pony up funds to support a comprehensive study of residents affected by the Aug. 8 fires.