While India marks the day of the world of liver, health experts raise concerns about the growing load of liver cancer, a disease often linked to modern lifestyles and late diagnosis. Despite the progress of oncology, cases of liver cancer, in particular hepatocellular carcinoma, go up regularly in India. FIRSTPOST brings out the point of view of a doctor to explore the reasons for the trend, his implications and the means to respond to them.
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Liver cancer emerges quickly as one of the fastest growth cancers in the world, India having a constant increase in cases. Despite the progress of oncology, the growing incidence of liver cancer reveals a disturbing gap in awareness and preventive efforts.
Most cases of liver cancer, in particular hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), occur in people with preexisting chronic hepatic disease. Unfortunately, many patients do not know their condition until the disease goes to subsequent stages. This highlights the urgent need for effective early detection and prevention strategies.
Firstpost spoke to Dr Manjeet Kumar Goyal, consultant (gastroenterology) at CK Birla (Gurugram) hospital to know why cases of liver cancer are increasing and the reason for the alarming trend.
Read also – Dr. explains: it’s not just alcohol – your diet could endanger your liver
Reasons behind the climb
Chronic hepatitis infections: The sustained infection of hepatitis C or B leads to a major increase in the risk of liver cancer.
Excessive alcohol consumption: Continuous alcohol consumption leads to cirrhosis, a leading precursor.
Non -alcoholic liver disease (NAFLD): More widespread due to unhealthy obesity and lifestyle.
Late diagnosis: The first signs such as fatigue, weight loss or light pain are generally neglected.
Low screening and vaccination rate: Most people are not tested for hepatitis or vaccinated against this.
Unhealthy lifestyle: Poor diet, rich in fats, physical inactivity and metabolic disease, contribute to causes.
What is alarming is that most of these causes are avoidable. A majority of cases could be avoided simply by increased awareness and healthier lifestyles.
How to reduce your risk
Vaccinate against hepatitis B: A quick and effective way to avoid liver disease due to hepatitis B infection.
Get regular screening: If you have family history of liver disease or other risk factors.
Limit alcohol consumption: maintain the supply of alcohol to the recommended levels or completely abstain from alcohol.
Eat healthy and keep an ideal weight: A diet and ideal weight management prevent NAFLD.
Frequent exercise: Advantages of the exercise global hepatic function.
Adopt safe hygiene and sexual practices: To prevent the transmission of infection by hepatitis B and C.
Check medical conditions: control diabetes, cholesterol and hypertension to minimize stress on the liver.
Be aware of symptoms: Do not reject the first indicators such as weakness, jaundice of the eyes or the skin and abdominal discomfort.