Protect Yourself: Surprising Liver Cancer Causes You Need to Know!

What Is Liver Cancer?

The liver is an essential organ that performs many important functions in the body, including producing bile to aid in digestion and storing nutrients. Liver cancer occurs when cancer cells develop in the liver and begin to multiply uncontrollably, forming a tumour.

The most common type of liver cancer is hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which accounts for 75% to 85% of all liver cancers. Primary liver cancer, which develops in the liver itself, is the most common type of liver cancer. Secondary liver cancer, which occurs when cancer cells spread to the liver from other parts of the body, is less common.

The exact causes of primary liver cancer are not fully understood, but several risk factors have been identified.

Risk Factors for Developing Liver Cancer

1. Hepatitis B and C: Chronic hepatitis infections are the most common risk factors for liver cancer. These viruses can cause inflammation and damage to liver cells.

2. Fatty Liver Disease: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a condition in which fat builds up in the liver cells. It is usually caused by obesity, diabetes, or high cholesterol.

3. Alcohol Consumption: Heavy alcohol consumption over many years can cause damage to the liver cells, leading to inflammation and scarring.

4. Inherited Metabolic Diseases: Inherited metabolic diseases such as Wilson's disease and alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency.

5. Primary Biliary Cirrhosis: Primary biliary cirrhosis is a chronic liver disease that damages the bile ducts in the liver. This can lead to inflammation and scarring of the liver, which can increase the risk of liver cancer.

6. Bile Duct Cancer: Bile duct cancer is a rare cancer that develops in the bile ducts of the liver.

Symptoms of Liver Cancer

Liver cancer symptoms may not appear until the cancer has advanced. Some common symptoms include:

1. Abdominal pain or discomfort

2. Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

3. Unexplained weight loss

4. Loss of appetite

5. Nausea and vomiting

6. Fatigue

7. Swelling in the abdomen

Treatment Options for Liver Cancer

The treatments for liver cancer depend on the stage of the cancer, its size, and the overall health of the patient. According to the National Cancer Institute, treatment options may include:

1. Surgery: Surgery may be used to remove the tumour and surrounding tissue. This may involve removing part or all of the liver.

2. Liver Transplant: A liver transplant may be recommended for patients with early-stage liver cancer. This involves replacing the damaged liver with a healthy liver from a donor.

3. Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells.

4. Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to destroy cancer cells.

5. Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapy uses drugs to target specific proteins that are involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells.

6. Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy uses drugs to stimulate the immune system to attack cancer cells.

Conclusion

Liver cancer is a serious disease that can be prevented with early detection and treatment. Understanding the causes and risk factors for liver cancer can help you take steps to prevent it. If you are at increased risk for liver cancer, it is important to get a regular liver cancer screening and talk to your doctor about treatment plans that are best suited for you.