7 Major Risk Factors of liver cancer in India
In India October month is celebrated as liver cancer awareness month and the cases of liver cancer is rising in India in the last few years rapidly. A study published in the Journal of Hepatology in October last year warned that by 2040, the annual number of new cases and deaths is predicted to increase by more than 55 per cent. In India, the primary reason for the prevalence of liver cancer in India is the increase in Hepatitis B & C infected population. Due to we need to raising awareness about liver health and working towards a world where liver disease is no longer a leading cause of death. Dr. Pratik Patil Medical oncologist in Pune share some Major risk factors of Liver Cancer and its’ treatment option.
let’s see:
7 Major Risk Factors of liver cancer in India:
- Chronic Liver Conditions: If your liver experiences ongoing problems like cirrhosis, which results from the scarring of liver tissue, it significantly increases the risk of liver cancer. Cirrhosis can develop due to chronic alcohol abuse, persistent infections such as hepatitis B or C, or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
- Viral Infections: Chronic infections with hepatitis B or C viruses pose a significant risk for liver cancer. These infections can cause continuous inflammation and harm to the liver, which raises the chances of developing cancer.
- Heavy Alcohol Consumption: Drinking alcohol excessively and over an extended period can damage the liver, potentially leading to cirrhosis and ultimately increasing the risk of liver cancer.
- Diabetes: Individuals with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing liver cancer, especially when they have additional risk factors like obesity and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
- Obesity: Being overweight increases your risk of developing liver cancer, especially your possess diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
- Age and Gender: Men is more likely than women to get liver cancer. In addition, the risk of liver cancer increases with age, with 90% of cases occurring among individuals over 60.
- Certain inherited liver diseases: Liver diseases that can increase the risk of liver cancer include hemochromatosis and Wilson’s disease.
Treatment Options for Liver Cancer:
- Surgery: Surgical procedures are often the preferred approach when liver cancer is detected early and the tumor is localized within the liver. There are two main surgical options:
- Partial Liver Removal (Hepatectomy): This procedure involves removing the portion of the liver containing the tumor. In some cases, when the entire liver is affected or the tumor is large, a liver transplant may be considered.
- Liver Transplant: In certain situations, individuals with early-stage liver cancer and cirrhosis may be candidates for a liver transplant. This complex procedure entails replacing the diseased liver with a healthy one from a compatible donor
- Ablation Therapy: Ablation methods utilise either heat or cold to eliminate cancerous cells. Common techniques include radiofrequency ablation (RFA), microwave ablation, and cryoablation. These treatments are suitable for smaller tumours or when surgery is not feasible.
- Embolization: Embolization encompasses procedures like transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) and radioembolization (Yttrium-90). These techniques are employed to block the blood supply to the tumor while delivering chemotherapy or radiation directly to the cancer cells.
- Immunotherapy: Certain individuals with liver cancer may find value in immunotherapy medications that activate the body’s immune system to combat cancer.
Liver cancer is a formidable health challenge in India, but many cases can be prevented or detected early through awareness and risk factor management. Regular screenings, vaccination against Hepatitis B, responsible alcohol consumption, healthy lifestyle choices, and food safety measures can significantly reduce the risk of developing liver cancer. Understanding these major risk factors is the first step in combating this disease and promoting liver health across the nation. For more information & treatment option call us on 096374 39163