“Liver Cancer” is not only the most common cancer in men and the second most common in women, but liver cancer also progresses very rapidly. It is said that… patients diagnosed with liver cancer often have a chance of dying within just 3-6 months!!
What causes liver cancer?
Liver cancer can occur in two ways: “originating directly in the liver” and “spreading from cancer in other organs.” Risk factors that cause liver cancer include hepatitis B virus, liver fluke infection, various chemicals, certain medications, pesticides, toxins produced by fungi, chemicals from fermented foods, alcohol, malnutrition, low immune system, genetic factors, and other environmental factors, all of which contribute to the development of the disease.
If you have these symptoms… you should see a doctor
Because the early stage of cancer usually shows no symptoms, but if you start to experience loss of appetite and weight loss, bloating and constipation, fatigue along with low-grade fever, pain or discomfort under the right rib cage, a lump may be felt when palpated. Other symptoms include yellowing of the skin and eyes, abdominal swelling, and swelling of both legs.
The earlier it is detected… the better the chances of treatment
Because cancer spreads rapidly… and there is a chance of death within just a few months! Those at risk should consult a doctor and regularly check for risks using the following methods…
- Blood test to measure alpha-fetoprotein levels, a substance produced by liver cell carcinoma.
- Examination of liver lumps using ultrasound, CT scan, MRI, or angiography by injecting dye into the artery supplying the liver.
Liver cancer treatment
- Surgery is the best method aiming for a cure but is applicable only for patients whose tumors are not too large and whose liver function is still good.
- Injection of chemotherapy drugs and embolic agents into the artery supplying the tumor to shrink the tumor (Chemoembolization).
- Injection of drugs such as alcohol directly into the tumor through the skin, used when the tumor is still small and the patient cannot undergo surgery.
- Chemotherapy is used only to relieve symptoms but cannot cure the disease.
- Radiation therapy is used to relieve cancer symptoms.
- Combination therapy.
Preventing yourself from liver cancer
- Do not eat food contaminated with fungi, burnt or smoked food, or food that has been prepared and stored overnight as it may contain fungi.
- Do not eat raw or undercooked food such as raw fish or fish salad as it may cause liver fluke infection, or fermented foods such as fermented fish, fermented pork, or fermented sausage because they contain nitrosamines which can cause liver cancer.
- Eat clean and freshly prepared food.
- Get vaccinated against hepatitis B virus if you are not infected and have no immunity.
- Have an annual health check-up.
