Liver cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the liver, an essential organ responsible for detoxification, digestion, and metabolism. The most common form is hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which originates in liver cells (hepatocytes). Other types include intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer within the liver) and angiosarcoma (a rare cancer of blood vessels in the liver).
Liver cancer is often diagnosed at an advanced stage due to its subtle early symptoms, making awareness and early screening critical for better treatment outcomes.
Several factors can increase the risk of developing liver cancer, including:
Chronic Hepatitis B or C infections – Leading causes of liver cancer worldwide
Cirrhosis – Scarring of the liver due to alcohol abuse, hepatitis, or fatty liver disease
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) – A growing cause of liver cancer linked to obesity and diabetes
Heavy alcohol consumption – Leads to liver damage and cirrhosis
Aflatoxin exposure – Toxins from contaminated foods (such as grains and nuts)
Diabetes and obesity – Increase the risk of liver cancer
Genetic disorders – Conditions like hemochromatosis (excess iron storage)
Liver cancer symptoms may not appear until later stages and can include:
Unexplained weight loss
Loss of appetite
Persistent abdominal pain (especially in the upper right side)
Swelling or fluid buildup in the abdomen (ascites)
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
Nausea and vomiting
Fatigue and weakness
Dark urine and pale stools
If you experience these symptoms, consult a doctor for further evaluation.
Liver cancer is diagnosed through a combination of tests, including:
Imaging tests – Ultrasound, CT scan, MRI to detect tumors
Blood tests – Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) test, a tumor marker for liver cancer
Liver biopsy – A small tissue sample is taken for laboratory testing
Liver function tests – To assess liver health and function
The treatment for liver cancer depends on the stage, liver function, and overall health. Options include:
Partial hepatectomy – Removes a portion of the liver containing the tumor
Liver transplant – Replaces the diseased liver with a healthy donor liver (an option for select patients)
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) or microwave ablation (MWA) – Uses heat to destroy cancer cells
Cryoablation – Freezing cancer cells to eliminate them
Targeted drugs block cancer growth pathways (e.g., Sorafenib, Lenvatinib)
Immunotherapy boosts the immune system to attack cancer cells (e.g., Nivolumab)
Chemotherapy is used in advanced cases but is less effective for liver cancer
Radiation therapy helps shrink tumors and relieve symptoms in select cases
Minimally invasive treatments that deliver chemotherapy or radiation directly into the tumor through blood vessels
The prognosis for liver cancer depends on the stage at diagnosis and treatment response. Early detection improves survival rates significantly.
Get vaccinated for Hepatitis B and seek treatment for Hepatitis C
Limit alcohol consumption to prevent cirrhosis
Maintain a healthy weight and manage diabetes to reduce fatty liver disease risk
Avoid aflatoxin-contaminated foods (properly store grains and nuts)
Get regular liver screenings if at high risk (especially for those with cirrhosis or hepatitis)
Liver cancer can be aggressive, but early diagnosis and advanced treatments offer better outcomes. If you have liver disease or risk factors, regular medical checkups are essential.