Scientists on Monday sounded the alarm. Without a reduction in exposure to the main risk factors, the number of new cases of liver cancer could double, “Going from 870,000 in 2022 to 1.52 million by 2050 “, reveals the investigation published in the medical journal The Lancet.
Liver cancer: 60 % of cases would be avoidable
If the liver cancer is scary, it is because it kills in the majority of cases: only 20% of diagnosed people reach five years. However, 60 % of cases would be avoidable if risk factors were reduced.
“We estimated that at least 60 % of liver cancers are avoidable thanks to the control of the modifiable risk factors of the hepatocellular carcinoma (…)”confirm the authors. And since “Three cases of in five liver cancer are linked to these avoidable risk factors, countries have a huge opportunity to save lives “continues Professor Stephen Chan.
But what are these famous risk factors? Dr. Gérald Kierzek, medical director of True Medical, tells us more.
Factors responsible for liver cancer
The hepatitis B virus (VHB), the hepatitis C virus (VHC), the MASLD (liver steat disease associated with metabolic dysfunction, characterized by an accumulation of fat in the liver) and alcohol are among the main factors to fight, reveal researchers.
In detail, two major causes have been identified:
- Excessive alcohol consumption. “”Alcohol is a hepatic toxic which promotes cirrhosis, a ground conducive to CHC (hepatocellular carcinoma, main primitive liver cancer). Despite the prevention campaigns, consumption remains high in many countries “, underlines Dr Gérald Kierzek.
- Viral infections (hepatitis B and C). “”Hepatitis B (transmitted by blood and body fluids) as well as hepatitis C (often linked to medical practices at risk or the use of injectable drugs) cause chronic liver inflammation, evolving towards cirrhosis and cancer. As for the hepatitis B vaccine, it exists, but its coverage remains insufficient in certain regions “, says the doctor.
Other contributory factors:
- The epidemic of metabolic diseases. “Diabetes, obesity, non -alcoholic or” nash “liver steatosis increase the risk of liver damage”, indicates the medical expert again;
- Late screening. “Lots of liver cancers are diagnosed at an advanced stage, in fact reducing the chances of healing”, warns the medical director of True Medical.
What are the main preventive measures?
To reduce the risk of liver cancer, “Several actions are fortunately possible“, Recalls Dr. Gérald Kierzek. Thus, it is recommended to:
- Limit or even avoid the consumption of alcohol, the first avoidable cause of the disease;
- Be vaccinated against hepatitis B;
- Avoid contamination by viral hepatitis: by adopting protected sexual practices, using sterile medical equipment and avoiding sharing of syringes;
- Fight against obesity and diabetes: thanks to a healthy diet and regular physical activity;
- Ensure medical follow -up in the event of chronic liver disease (cirrhosis, fibrosis) to detect any development;
- Avoid exposure to Aflatoxins, toxic molds present in certain poorly preserved foods, such as cereals or peanuts.
“A combined strategy for early prevention and screening could avoid thousands of cases in the decades to come”, concludes the medical director of True Medical.