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The global epidemic of liver cancer: Why are rates of this disease increasing?
Hepatocellular carcinoma, also known as liver tumor or primary liver cancer, is a type of cancer that originates in the liver. There are two types of cancer: primary, which is cancer that originates in the liver itself, and metastatic, which is cancer that has spread to the liver from other parts of the body. According to global statistics, the incidence of liver cancer is increasing significantly, and experts around the world continue to pay attention to the urgency and potential causes of this health issue.
Globally, liver cancer is the sixth most common cancer and the fourth leading cause of cancer death.
According to statistics in 2018, approximately 841,000 people were diagnosed with liver cancer and it resulted in 782,000 deaths. Liver cancer is more common in populations that are more susceptible to hepatitis B and C infections, such as in Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. The incidence rate is higher in men than in women, and the most susceptible age group is those between 55 and 65 years old. The main causes of liver cancer are cirrhosis caused by hepatitis virus and long-term alcoholism.
Types of Liver CancerThe classification of liver cancer depends not only on where the cancer is located but also on the type of cell it originates from. One of the most common types is hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which accounts for approximately 75% of all primary liver cancers. This type of cancer is considered the third leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Another common cancer is bile duct cancer, which is composed of the epithelial cells that line the bile ducts and is more common in men between the ages of 60 and 70.
Most symptoms of liver cancer are vague and include abdominal pain, weight loss, and jaundice.
Diagnosis relies on blood tests and medical imaging, and often requires a tissue biopsy to confirm the presence of cancer. Therefore, regular screening becomes essential for people at high risk of chronic liver disease.
Precautions
As awareness of the risks of liver cancer increases, various preventive measures have emerged. Effective strategies include hepatitis B vaccination, improving drinking habits, and controlling obesity and diabetes. For those with chronic liver disease, doctors recommend ultrasound screening every six months to detect possible liver cancer early.
People can reduce their risk of liver cancer by controlling their diet and reducing their exposure to carcinogens such as aflatoxins, which are commonly found in certain contaminated foods.
Treatment and Management
How liver cancer is treated depends on the type of cancer and its stage. Common treatments include surgical resection, radiotherapy, and targeted therapy. The most common treatment for HCC is surgical resection, but cases that have spread or cannot be removed may require a liver transplant and other adjuvant therapies.
With the advancement of medical technology, new immunotherapy has shown potential in the treatment of liver cancer, especially in certain refractory tumors. For patients with liver cancer, in addition to direct attacks on cancer cells, some emerging therapies adopt strategies to enhance their own immunity.
ConclusionThe increase in the incidence of liver cancer worldwide is not accidental, but is caused by complex social, environmental and medical factors. Faced with this situation, we should start thinking: How can we further strengthen the prevention and early diagnosis of liver cancer at the individual, social and policy levels?
