Rates of liver cancer continue to rise year-over-year in the United States. While we don’t know the exact cause of all liver cancers, we do know that there are specific risk factors that may influence whether you could develop the disease. At the OSUCCC – James, our team of experts is leading the way with groundbreaking research on identifying the exact causes of liver cancer and potential new treatments for it. Because it’s the third-leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S., the importance of preventive efforts is key to help reduce the rate.
How to prevent liver cancer
Over 80% of all liver cancer diagnoses are hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This type of liver cancer usually occurs in those with advanced liver disease (cirrhosis) or positive hepatitis infection. Hepatitis infections and cirrhosis of the liver can be reduced by incorporating healthy lifestyle choices into daily living.
Risk factors are anything that can increase your chances of developing a specific condition. It’s important to note, however, that just because you take preventive measures doesn’t mean you can’t get the disease. Additionally, you may be at risk of developing liver cancer and never get it. There are some risk factors that you can change and some you can’t. Therefore, it’s important to talk to your doctor about preventive measures you can take to reduce your risk of developing liver cancer.
Some preventive measures you can take include:
- Avoid alcohol or reduce the amount you drink. One of the leading causes of cirrhosis is excessive alcohol use. To help reduce the chances of developing cirrhosis, you should limit the amount of alcohol you drink or avoid it.
- Get vaccinated against hepatitis. Hepatitis infections are one of the leading contributing risk factors to liver cancer. Specifically, hepatitis B (HBV) and hepatitis C (HCV) are the two types that can lead to liver cancer if left untreated. A vaccine for hepatitis B exists and can help prevent hepatitis infection.
- Don’t use intravenous (IV) drugs. The use of contaminated needles when injecting illegal drugs is a common cause of hepatitis C. Consider seeking help for drug use if you are actively using.
- Quit smoking cigarettes. Those who smoke cigarettes are at an increased risk of developing liver cancer. Your chances increase with the more cigarettes you smoke and the longer you do.
- Eat a healthy diet. Diets high in added sugars and red meat have been attributed to increased risks of liver cancer. Choose lean proteins, vegetables and fruits when possible.
- Maintain a healthy weight. Research has shown those who are obese are more likely to develop liver cancer. Stay active and keep a healthy body weight to help reduce the risks associated with obesity and liver cancer.
Risk factors for liver cancer
As mentioned above, risk factors can increase your chances of developing a specific condition. For liver cancer, the two biggest risk factors for getting the disease are advanced liver disease (cirrhosis) and a positive hepatitis infection.
Hepatitis B or C infection
Long-term infection of the hepatitis B or hepatitis C virus is a major risk factor for liver cancer.
Hepatitis is spread through human contact primarily through body fluids and blood. Having hepatitis B and hepatitis C is a significant risk factor for liver cancer. Most people recover from hepatitis infection, but some can become chronic carriers and are at an increased risk of developing cirrhosis of the liver.
Cirrhosis
Cirrhosis is a disease of the liver that develops over time. Cells in the liver can become damaged from chronic hepatitis C infection or by drinking too much alcohol over many years. Scar tissue forms where the liver cells are damaged. Most people who develop cirrhosis will have an increased lifetime risk for liver cancer.
The following are additional risk factors for adult primary liver cancer:
- Having a close relative with both hepatitis and liver cancer
- Eating foods tainted with aflatoxin (poison from a fungus that can grow on foods, such as grains and nuts, that have not been stored properly)
- Having hemochromatosis, a condition in which the body takes up and stores more iron than it needs; the extra iron is stored in the liver, heart and pancreas
- Metabolic Dysfunction Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) (formerly referred to as Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease)
- Arsenic exposure
- High intake of male hormones or anabolic steroids
It’s important to remember that having risk factors doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll develop liver cancer. If you do have risk factors, or a family history of the disease, ask your doctor about available tests to detect liver cancer early.
If you have received a liver cancer diagnosis, or if you want a second opinion, we’re here to help you. Call 800-293-5066 or 614-293-5066 to make an appointment.
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