Cancer that starts in the cells of the liver is known as liver cancer. There are different types of liver cancer. The commonly occurring type is known as hepatocellular carcinoma, which begins in the hepatocyte, the main type of liver cell. Other types of cancer spread to the liver after beginning in other organs as well. These types of cancer are identified as metastatic cancer and are named after the organ that they began in.
The risk of liver cancer increases due to a few factors, including the following:
1. Age
According to statistics, people above the age of 60 are at risk of developing liver cancer.
2. Diabetes
Studies have shown that a person suffering from diabetes has a higher risk of liver cancer than those who do not have diabetes.
3. Cirrhosis
Cirrhosis forms scar tissue in the liver, which then increases the risk of liver cancer.
4. Wilson’s disease
Wilson’s disease is one of the factors that can increase the risk of liver cancer.
5. Viral hepatitis
Hepatitis is a disease of the liver. It is a major factor that can increase the risk of liver cancer. Moreover, the American Cancer Society confirms that hepatitis C is the most common cause of liver cancer in the country.
6. Excessive consumption of alcohol
Regular and excessive consumption of alcohol can lead to liver cancer.
7. Environmental factors
Certain environmental factors, such as the consumption of food with aflatoxin, can increase the risk of liver cancer.
8. Hereditary
A person whose parents or siblings have had liver cancer is prone to getting the condition. Inherited diseases such as hemochromatosis can cause cirrhosis, which, in turn, leads to liver cancer.
9. Low immunity
People suffering from HIV and/or AIDS have a risk of liver cancer.
10. Obesity
Many obese people are prone to the risk of developing liver cancer.
It should be noted that if an individual is exposed to more than one of the above factors, the risk of liver cancer escalates. Individuals who are at high-risk due to any or a combination of the factors should go for regular check-ups. This is important, as the sooner the disease is diagnosed, the sooner liver cancer treatments can be commenced. These checkups are vital, as the symptoms of liver cancer are not visible or detected until an advanced stage. Treatment administered later could be ineffective in some cases.