A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding and Preventing Liver Cancer

Liver cancer ranks as the fifth most prevalent cancer in males and the ninth most prevalent cancer in females globally. Understanding the risk factors, symptoms, and preventive measures associated with liver cancer is crucial for early detection and effective management. In this comprehensive guide, let us delve into the intricate details of liver cancer, providing you with valuable insights into its causes, detection methods, liver cancer treatment options, and lifestyle changes that can help prevent its onset.

Understanding Liver Cancer

The incidence of liver cancer has been increasing over the past few decades. Some common risk factors associated with liver cancer include obesity, alcohol consumption, and viral hepatitis. These factors can lead to liver damage, inflammation, and cirrhosis.

There are two main types of liver cancer:

• Primary liver cancer- The cancer type starts in the cells of the liver. A buildup of toxins in the body, such as alcohol or viral infections, leads to primary liver cancer.
• Secondary liver cancer- When cancer starts in another part of the body and then spreads to the liver, it is called Liver Metastases or secondary liver cancer. Secondary liver cancer is more likely caused by colon or breast cancer.

Risk Factors for Liver Cancer

There are many risk factors associated with Liver Cancer

• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Chronic hepatitis B or C infection
• Cirrhosis
• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
• Hepatitis B virus infection acquired at birth or during childhood
• Diabetes mellitus
• Obesity
• Smoking tobacco

Certain genetic conditions can also increase the risk of developing liver cancer, such as hemochromatosis (a disorder that causes the body to absorb and store too much iron) and Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (a condition that predisposes individuals to develop Colorectal Cancer). Effective liver cancer treatment involves a multidisciplinary approach that may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and other targeted therapies.

Symptoms of Liver Cancer

Liver cancer is a severe condition that can show up with different symptoms. These symptoms may vary depending on the cancer stage and its progress. Some of the most common symptoms of liver cancer include the following:

• Jaundice
• Weight loss
• Fatigue
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to visit the oncologists in the reputed cancer treatment centres, as they are the right people to determine whether or not you have liver cancer. Early detection is critical for successful treatment.

Treatment Options for Liver Cancer

Liver cancer is a severe health condition that requires timely and effective treatment. Fortunately, several treatment options are available for liver cancer patients, including surgery, targeted therapy, and chemotherapy.

Surgery is the most common form of treating liver cancer. Depending on the stage of cancer, the patient may undergo liver surgical resection or a liver transplant.

• Hepatectomy: This involves the surgical removal of a portion of the liver. It is often performed to treat liver cancer or other liver diseases, such as cirrhosis or liver metastases.
• Liver Transplantation: This involves the complete replacement of the diseased liver with a healthy liver from a matched donor. It is a treatment option for end-stage liver disease or liver cancer patients that cannot be treated with other therapies.

Both procedures aim to remove the cancerous tissue and prevent cancer from spreading to other body parts.

Targeted therapy utilizes drugs targeting specific genes or proteins in cancer growth. Targeted therapy drugs work by blocking cancer cells' signals to grow and divide. This type of treatment is often combined with other cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Chemotherapy is a type of treatment that utilizes drugs to kill cancer cells. This type of treatment can be administered orally or through intravenous injection. Chemotherapy drugs work by targeting and destroying rapidly dividing cancer cells. This treatment can be used alone or in combination with other cancer treatments.

The decision about which type of liver cancer treatment to use depends on many factors, including the cancer stage, the extent of the spread of the tumour, and the patient's overall health.

How Can You Prevent Liver Cancer?

Here are some steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing liver cancer:

• Avoid or limit alcohol consumption: A significant risk factor for liver cancer is excessive consumption of alcohol. Therefore, one should consume it in moderation.
• Get vaccinated against Hepatitis B: Liver cancer is often caused by chronic hepatitis B virus infection. Consider getting the vaccination if you are at risk of developing liver cancer.
• Get treated for viral hepatitis if infected: If you have hepatitis B or C, it is critical that you receive timely and proper treatment to lower your chances of developing liver cancer.
• Avoid or quit smoking: Smoking has been associated with an increased risk of liver cancer. If you smoke, giving it up can help lower your risk.
• Maintain a healthy weight and exercise regularly: Obesity or being overweight increases the risk of developing liver cancer. You can lower your risk by keeping a healthy weight and getting regular exercise.
• Eat a healthy diet: Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein while limiting processed and high-fat foods can help lower the chance of developing liver cancer.

How Can AOI Help with Liver Cancer Treatment?

American Oncology Institute (AOI) has a team of highly trained and experienced oncologists, radiologists, and other medical professionals specialized in cancer treatments. We ensure our patients receive world-class treatments using cutting-edge technology, such as robotic surgery. AOI could be the right destination for all your cancer problems if you are looking for the best cancer treatment center.