Liver cancer is a serious health concern that can have devastating consequences. Based on the Singapore cancer registry 2020, liver cancer ranks as the fourth most common cancer in men and the fifth most common cause of cancer death in women. Despite its prevalence, many people are unaware of the contributory risk factors. By understanding them, individuals can take proactive steps to prevent liver cancer and protect their overall health.
Knowing The Risk Factors
There are several known risk factors for liver cancer, including:
- Chronic liver disease – Chronic liver disease, including cirrhosis or hardening of the liver, can increase the risk of liver cancer. The most common causes of cirrhosis are hepatitis B or C infections, fatty liver, and excessive alcohol consumption.
- Excessive alcohol consumption – Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to liver damage, which can increase the risk of liver cancer.
- Hepatitis B and C infections – An individual with hepatitis B or C is a hundred times more likely to develop liver cancer compared to one without hepatitis B or C. Hepatitis B is the most common cause of primary liver cancer. It can be transmitted from an infected mother to the baby during pregnancy. In adults, hepatitis B and C can be transmitted by contact through infected body fluids (e.g., blood, semen, and other secretions). Such transmission can therefore occur when an individual has a blood transfusion from an infected donor, or have a tattoo with contaminated needles, or unprotected intercourse with an infected person. Hepatitis B results in DNA damage to the liver cells, which can then lead to cirrhosis.
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) – It is a condition in which excess fat accumulates in the liver and can lead to liver damage and an increased risk of liver cancer. In affluent societies, this can become increasingly common.
- Exposure to poison (aflatoxins) – Exposure to aflatoxins is associated with an increased risk of liver cancer. People can be exposed to it by eating contaminated plant products, such as peanuts, or by consuming meat or dairy products from animals that ingested contaminated feed.
- Diabetes – A person with diabetes has a greater risk of liver cancer than those who are not diabetic.
- Inherited liver diseases – Liver diseases, such as hemochromatosis (when the body builds up too much iron in the skin, heart, liver, pancreas, pituitary gland, and joints) and Wilson’s disease (a rare inherited disorder that causes copper to accumulate in your liver, brain, and other vital organs), can increase the risk of liver cancer.
The Symptoms to Watch Out For
In its early stages, liver cancer may not have noticeable symptoms. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include:
- Abdominal pain or swelling
- Unexplained weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue
- Nausea or vomiting
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
- Dark urine
- Light-coloured stools
- Itchy skin
- Bruising easily
- Enlarged veins under the skin
- A hard lump under the ribs on the right side where the liver is located
Notably, these symptoms may also be caused by other conditions. So, it is essential to seek medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms. A doctor can perform diagnostic tests to determine the exact cause of the symptoms and provide an accurate diagnosis. Early detection and treatment are important in improving outcomes for those with liver cancer.
The Importance of Early Detection & Prevention
Prevention and early detection are crucial in the fight against liver cancer. By identifying and addressing risk factors, you can take steps to lower your risk of developing liver cancer and improve your chances of a positive outcome.
Early detection of liver cancer is crucial because the disease is often asymptomatic in its early stages, meaning there are often no noticeable symptoms until the cancer has progressed. When detected early, the chances of successful treatment are much higher, and treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy may be more effective.
The old adage that prevention is better than cure rings true for liver cancer. Preventive measures include reducing risk factors such as cutting down on alcohol consumption, maintaining a healthy weight, getting vaccinated against hepatitis B, and undergoing regular screening for hepatitis B and C. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including eating a balanced diet and engaging in regular physical activity, is also important, as these practices can help reduce the risk of liver cancer and other health problems.
Conclusion
Understanding the factors mentioned above is crucial in reducing the risk and improving outcomes for those diagnosed with the disease. This way, you can take proactive steps to reduce the risk.
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