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info@vivavel.com+919818262686+919818262686Liver cancer is a disease that starts in the liver, a vital organ that helps with digestion and removes toxins from your blood. The most common type of liver cancer is hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which begins in the primary liver cells called hepatocytes. This type of cancer is more likely to develop in people with long-term liver diseases, such as hepatitis or cirrhosis.
Symptoms of liver cancer may include unexplained weight loss, stomach pain, nausea, and jaundice, which causes the skin and eyes to turn yellow. Some people might feel full after eating small amounts or notice a lump in the upper abdomen.
Liver cancer is usually treated with surgery, radiation, or targeted therapies, depending on the stage of the disease. Early diagnosis can significantly improve treatment outcomes, making it essential to monitor liver health, particularly for individuals at higher risk. Preventing liver cancer often involves managing liver conditions, avoiding excessive alcohol use, and getting vaccinated against hepatitis B.
Maintaining a healthy liver can significantly reduce your risk of developing liver cancer.
Liver cancer often doesn't cause symptoms in its early stages. As it progresses, you might experience:
Unexplained weight loss
Loss of appetite
Feeling full after eating little food
Nausea or vomiting
Swelling or pain in the upper right side of the abdomen
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
Fatigue
Dark urine and pale stools
Note: Other conditions can also cause these symptoms; therefore, it's essential to consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis.
Liver cancer develops when liver cells begin to grow uncontrollably. While the exact cause is often unknown, certain factors can increase the likelihood of developing it:
Chronic liver infections: Long-term infections with hepatitis B (HBV) or hepatitis C (HCV) can lead to liver cancer.
Cirrhosis: Scarring of the liver caused by alcohol abuse or other liver diseases increases the risk.
Genetics: Certain inherited diseases, such as hemochromatosis, can increase the risk of developing this condition.
Fatty liver disease: Excessive fat buildup in the liver (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease) can cause damage.
Environmental toxins: Exposure to certain chemicals like aflatoxins (from moldy grains) may also lead to liver cancer.
You should seek medical attention if you notice any of the following:
Unexplained weight loss
Persistent pain or swelling in your abdomen
Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
Chronic fatigue
If you have risk factors like hepatitis infection or cirrhosis, regular check-ups are important.
Several tests are used to diagnose liver cancer:
Blood tests:
Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP): A protein that is elevated in some people with liver cancer.
Liver function tests: These measure how well your liver is working.
Imaging tests:
Ultrasound: Often the first test to detect liver tumors.
CT scans or MRIs provide detailed images of the liver and surrounding tissues.
Liver biopsy: A small sample of liver tissue is taken to confirm the diagnosis and check the type of liver cancer.
Do's:
Get vaccinated: Vaccination against hepatitis B helps reduce the risk of infection.
Seek treatment for hepatitis: If you have hepatitis B or C, seek treatment to reduce liver damage.
Limit alcohol: Drinking in moderation reduces the risk of liver disease.
Maintain a healthy weight: Regular exercise and a balanced diet can prevent fatty liver disease.
Avoid exposure to aflatoxins: Store grains and nuts properly to prevent mold growth and contamination.
Get regular check-ups: If you have liver disease or risk factors, regular liver function tests can help detect it early.
Don'ts:
Avoid excess alcohol: Limit alcohol consumption to prevent liver damage.
Don't neglect hepatitis: Don't ignore chronic infections; untreated hepatitis can lead to cancer.
Avoid fatty and processed foods, as they contribute to obesity and fatty liver disease.
Don't smoke: Smoking increases the risk of various cancers, including liver cancer.
Disclaimer:
Our medical content authors have diligently gathered and synthesized information on this topic to offer valuable insights to our readers. Drawing from a range of reputable medical journals and health resources, this content aims to enhance understanding of the subject. It's essential to remember that while this information is informative, it should not replace personalized consultation or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional. For further details, please refer to our Editorial Policy.
For this topic, our authors used some of the following resources:
Cleveland Clinic | Liver Cancer
American Cancer Society | Liver Cancer
American Cancer Society | Liver Cancer Causes, Risks, and Prevention
American Cancer Society | Liver Cancer Early Detection, Diagnosis, and Staging
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