Liver Cancer

Primary liver cancer, or hepatocellular carcinoma, originates in the liver cells. Chronic liver conditions such as hepatitis B or C infections, cirrhosis, and fatty liver disease increase the risk. It’s often diagnosed in advanced stages due to non-specific early symptoms.

It can also be secondary (metastatic), meaning cancer from another organ has spread to the liver.

Key Facts:

• High incidence in Asia and Africa due to hepatitis infections
• Often asymptomatic until advanced
• Early detection is challenging but crucial

Symptoms:

• Upper right abdominal pain
• Jaundice
• Weight loss
• Nausea
  
  

Causes:

• Chronic liver diseases
• Cirrhosis
• Alcohol abuse
  
  

Treatment:

• Surgery
• Liver transplant
• Targeted therapy
• Ablation or embolization
  
  

Prevention:

• Hepatitis B vaccination
• Avoiding alcohol and tobacco
• Regular screening for high-risk groups