Liver Cancer
Liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma) often develops in people with chronic liver disease such as hepatitis B or C infection, or cirrhosis. It's increasing in South Asia and can be effectively prevented through hepatitis vaccination.
Is It Treatable?
When detected early and the liver is otherwise healthy, surgery can be curative. Hepatitis B vaccination can prevent up to 80% of liver cancers. Get vaccinated and get tested.
Warning Signs
- ●Unexplained weight loss
- ●Loss of appetite
- ●Upper abdominal pain or swelling
- ●Yellowing of skin and eyes (jaundice)
- ●White, chalky stools
- ●Fatigue and weakness
Risk Factors
- ●Chronic hepatitis B or C infection
- ●Cirrhosis (scarring of the liver)
- ●Heavy alcohol consumption
- ●Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
- ●Diabetes and obesity
- ●Aflatoxin exposure from contaminated foods
Screening & Detection
Liver ultrasound and AFP blood test every 6 months for high-risk individuals. Hepatitis B vaccination is the best prevention.
Treatment Options
Surgery (liver resection or transplant), ablation therapy, embolization, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.