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The liver's battle: How viral infection becomes the main cause of liver cancer?
As the number of liver cancer cases increases worldwide, the medical community is conducting increasingly in-depth research on this disease. Today, liver cancer has become the sixth most common cancer and the fourth leading cause of cancer death worldwide. The diversity of liver cancer makes it a complex issue, mainly including primary liver cancer and liver metastasis. The main types of primary liver cancer include hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and cholangiocarcinoma. Among these cancers, viral infections, especially hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV), have been established as the major pathogenic factors of liver cancer.
Background and impact of viral infection
Statistics show that approximately 80% of hepatocellular carcinoma cases worldwide are related to HBV or HCV, especially in Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. For men, the risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma after infection with these viruses is higher, and this gender difference remains unexplained. The mechanism of action of the viruses is that they cause severe inflammation and fibrosis of the liver, which can then develop into cirrhosis and eventually liver tumors.
"Cell mutation caused by viral infection is a key link in the formation of liver cancer. It not only triggers inflammation, but also changes the gene expression and signaling pathways of cells."
Types and diagnosis of liver cancer
Liver cancer can be divided into several types, the most common of which is hepatocellular carcinoma, which accounts for about 75% of all primary liver cancers. Imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scans, and MRI play a key role in diagnosing liver cancer, while liver tissue biopsy is an important method for the final diagnosis. As technology advances, the medical community has improved its early screening and diagnosis of liver cancer, especially for those with a history of chronic liver disease, who are recommended to undergo ultrasound screening every six months.
Treatment of liver cancerTreatment methods vary for different types of liver cancer. For early-stage HCC, surgical resection is often considered the treatment of choice. For patients with advanced disease, other treatment options such as targeted therapy and radiation therapy may also be considered. Emerging immunotherapies, such as genetically engineered T cells, also show potential in treating liver cancer.
"For personalized treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma, accurate screening and diagnosis are the key to success."
The importance of preventing liver cancer
Prevention of liver cancer includes multiple strategies, the most effective of which is hepatitis B vaccination. In addition, controlling alcohol intake, maintaining a healthy weight, and promptly treating hepatitis are also feasible ways to reduce the risk of liver cancer. Studies have shown that treatment of viral hepatitis can not only reduce the incidence of liver cancer, but also significantly improve the quality of life of patients.
"Reducing viral infection is the key to liver cancer prevention, because 80% of hepatocellular carcinoma is related to viral infection."
Conclusion
The rising trend of liver cancer reminds us that we must pay attention to the multiple causes behind it, especially the risks posed by viral infections. All sectors of society need to work together to raise awareness of the prevention and treatment of liver cancer. So, in the face of this challenge, have you ever thought about what changes you can make as an individual to reduce your risk?
