The death rate in the Downtown Eastside is
eight times higher than the Canadian average, and treatable problems are
linked to mortality, according to research from the University of
British Columbia published last month.
Psychosis and liver problems related to
hepatitis C were the highest risk factors for mortality, according to
the study of 371 people over about four years.
Researchers recruited the participants from
single-room occupancy hotels and the Downtown Community Court.
Thirty-one of them died.