In the year 2022, the National Cancer Institute reported an increase in cancer cases in Thailand, with more than 140,000 new cases or approximately 400 new cases per day. Also the top five most common cancers in Thailand are liver and bile duct cancer, lung cancer, breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and cervical cancer.
How many types of Liver Cancer are there?
The most common types of liver cancer are
- Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC): This type originates from hepatocytes, the liver’s main cells, and is the most common form of liver cancer.
- Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA): This type arises from the cells lining the bile ducts.
Liver cancer can also be secondary, meaning it has spread to the liver from another part of the body, such as the colon or ovaries.
Why is Liver Cancer more common in Men?
When it comes to the causes of liver cancer, over 95% of cases are attributed to external factors, including lifestyle, environmental, and not genetics. Liver cancer is most commonly associated with liver cirrhosis, which is often caused by excessive alcohol consumption. As men tend to drink more alcohol than women, they are at a higher risk of developing liver cirrhosis and, subsequently, liver cancer. In fact, men are two to three times more likely to develop liver cancer than women.
You don’t have to drink alcohol to be at risk!
While excessive alcohol consumption is a significant factor in liver cancer, it’s not the sole cause. Liver cancer primarily results from the abnormal growth of liver cells, and alcohol is just one of many contributing factors. Other risk factors include.
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- High blood fat levels
- Consumption of contaminated food, especially aflatoxins found in peanuts, grains, dried chilli, and garlic
- Chronic viral hepatitis B or C infection
Let’s check warning signs – Are you at risk of Liver Cancer?
Liver cancer in its early stages often presents no symptoms, making it challenging to detect. However, as the disease progresses, you may notice the following signs.
- Early satiety or reduced appetite
- Fatigue and weakness
- Unexplained weight loss
- Palpable lumps in the upper abdomen
- Abdominal discomfort, pain, or bloating
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
- Swelling in the legs
- Symptoms related to liver cirrhosis, such as gastrointestinal bleeding, vomiting blood, or black stools
Can Liver Cancer be cured?
Although liver cancer is highly dangerous, it can be curable, especially when detected early, and its location, size, and spread are limited. Treatment options for liver cancer include.
- Curative Treatment: This includes surgical removal of a portion of the liver, radiofrequency ablation, or liver transplantation.
- Palliative Treatment: This aims to slow down the progression of the disease and may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or targeted therapy.
Regular screening can reduce your risk!
Regular liver cancer screening can be performed through ultrasound examinations and blood tests, measuring Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels. It is recommended for individuals at risk, including those with a history of chronic hepatitis B, those over 40 for men and 50 for women, those with a family history of liver cancer, those with cirrhosis, and those with viral hepatitis C infection.
4 Self-Care to reduce risk of Liver Cancer
Reducing your risk of liver cancer involves taking certain precautions.
- Avoid Alcohol Consumption: Limit or avoid alcohol beverages consumption to reduce the risk of liver cirrhosis.
- Hepatitis Screening and Vaccination: Get screened for hepatitis B and C infections regularly and consider getting vaccinated against hepatitis B.
- Dietary Choices: Maintain a balanced and healthy diet, avoid excessive consumption of sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, and be cautious of aflatoxin-contaminated foods.
- Food Awareness: Pay attention to the quality of consumed food, including potential contamination with aflatoxins or molds.
By following these steps and being vigilant about your health, you can reduce your risk of liver cancer and take proactive measures for early detection and treatment if needed.
