Liver Cancer On A Rise In India: Here Are Some Ways To Reduce Your Risk

Liver cancer is cancer that begins in the cells of your liver. Several types of cancer can form in the liver. The most common type of liver cancer is hepatocellular carcinoma, which begins in the main type of liver cell (hepatocyte). Other types of liver cancer, such as intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma and hepatoblastoma, are much less common.

According to recent reports, liver cancer is on the rise in India [1].

How To Prevent Liver Cancer

The most common type of primary liver cancer (HCC) is also the fastest growing cause of cancer-related death in India. HCC incidence rates in India, based on these available data, range from 4 to 7.5 per 100,000 population per year for males and 1.2 to 2.2 per 100,000 population per year for females, with a male to female ratio of 4:1 and a presentation age ranging from 40 to 70 years of age [2][3].

Is Liver Cancer Preventable?

By following healthy lifestyle measures, such as regular exercise, controlling your weight, and eating a healthy diet with limited alcohol consumption, you can reduce your risk of developing liver cancer.

In addition, it is important to avoid infection with the hepatitis B and C viruses.

Here are some ways to prevent the risk of liver cancer:

1. Prevention and treatment of hepatitis B and C

As a consequence of untreated hepatitis B infection, cirrhosis (scarring), liver failure, and cancer can develop. Hepatitis B vaccines are available for children and adults. Consider undergoing a screening test if you are at risk of contracting hepatitis B or C [4].

Antiviral therapy may be an option for those with chronic hepatitis B, which can reduce (but not eliminate) the risk of liver cancer and slow down the progression of liver disease. Although there is no vaccine for hepatitis C, the right treatment can eliminate the virus in most cases.

2. Avoid use of alcohol and tobacco

It has been shown that alcohol consumption contributes to cirrhosis, which in turn can lead to liver cancer. People should avoid drinking alcohol or drink in moderation in order to prevent liver cancer.

In addition to increasing the risk of liver cancer, smoking also increases the risk of many other cancers and life-threatening diseases. If you smoke, quitting will help reduce your risk of this cancer, as well as many other cancers and life-threatening diseases [5].

How To Prevent Liver Cancer

3. Treat liver cancer-causing diseases

An individual with certain inherited diseases may develop cirrhosis of the liver, which may increase the risk of liver cancer. The risk of liver cancer can be decreased by finding and treating these diseases early in life [6].

For example, all children from families who have hemochromatosis should be screened for the disease and treated.

4. Avoid exposure to cancer-causing substances

People can also take steps to limit their exposure to known carcinogens, such as quitting smoking, limiting sun exposure, limiting alcohol consumption, or, if of the appropriate age, obtaining vaccines against HPV and HBV.

5. Maintain a healthy weight

Another way to help prevent liver cancer may be to avoid obesity. People who are obese are more likely to develop fatty liver disease and diabetes, both of which have been linked to the disease [7].

How To Prevent Liver Cancer?

On A Final Note...

Generally speaking, only early-stage liver cancer can be cured. Doctors use diagnostic tests to determine the cancer's stage, so staging may not be complete until all of the tests have been completed.

In addition to helping the doctor determine the best treatment option, knowing the stage can help predict the prognosis of the patient, emphasising the importance of following healthy habits to reduce the risk of developing liver cancer.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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