Scientists Highlight Preventable Factors in Rising Liver Cancer Cases

The incidence of liver cancer, recognized as one of the most difficult cancers to treat, is projected to nearly double by the year 2050, according to a recent analysis by The Lancet Commission on liver cancer. Currently, an alarming three out of five cases are attributable to preventable risk factors, including viral hepatitis, alcohol consumption, and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD).

Liver cancer ranks as the sixth most common cancer globally and is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Its treatment is complicated by late diagnoses, the liver’s intricate anatomy, and the disease’s aggressive nature. The analysis forecasts that new liver cancer cases will rise from approximately 870,000 in 2022 to 1.52 million by 2050, driven primarily by population growth and aging demographics.

Prof Jian Zhou, chair of the Commission and affiliated with Fudan University in China, emphasized the urgency of addressing this growing health issue. He stated, “Liver cancer is a growing health issue around the world. It is one of the most challenging cancers to treat, with five-year survival rates ranging from approximately 5 percent to 30 percent. We risk seeing close to a doubling of cases and deaths from liver cancer over the next quarter of a century without urgent action to reverse this trend.”

The study highlights a significant opportunity for countries to combat liver cancer by targeting its preventable risk factors. Prof Stephen Chan from the Chinese University of Hong Kong noted, “As three in five cases of liver cancer are linked to preventable risk factors, there is a huge opportunity for countries to target these risk factors, prevent cases of liver cancer, and save lives.”

Historically, liver cancer was predominantly associated with viral hepatitis or alcohol-related liver disease. However, the rising rates of obesity have led to an increase in MASLD, a condition characterized by fat accumulation in the liver. MASLD is linked to metabolic risk factors, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and high cholesterol, with an estimated one-third of the global population affected. While only 20 to 30 percent of MASLD patients progress to the more severe form known as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), the incidence of MASLD-related liver cancer is anticipated to rise significantly, particularly in the USA, Europe, and Asia.

In the United States, the prevalence of MASLD continues to align with the ongoing obesity epidemic. Projections suggest that by 2040, over 55 percent of US adults could be diagnosed with MASLD.

To mitigate the increasing risk of liver cancer, Prof Hashem B El-Serag from Baylor College of Medicine proposes that healthcare systems incorporate routine screening for liver damage in patients at high risk of MASLD, including individuals with obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. He advocates for integrating lifestyle counseling into routine care to encourage healthier dietary choices and regular physical activity. Furthermore, he urges policymakers to create healthier food environments through initiatives such as sugar taxes and clear labeling on high-fat, high-sugar products.

Pamela Healy, chief executive of the British Liver Trust, remarked on the urgency of addressing this health crisis. She highlighted that liver cancer is the fastest rising cause of cancer death in the UK, with just 13 percent of diagnosed patients surviving for five years or more. Healy emphasized the need to improve early detection through surveillance for those with cirrhosis and to tackle the underlying causes of liver cancer. She stated, “By supporting people to maintain a healthy weight, cut down on alcohol, and get tested and treated for hepatitis, we can prevent many cases of liver cancer and save lives.”

To reduce the risk of liver cancer, experts recommend several lifestyle changes. Adopting a balanced diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods and controlling portion sizes can help combat obesity. Individuals should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week. Additionally, getting adequate sleep and managing stress levels are vital components of a healthy lifestyle.

For those seeking to reduce alcohol consumption, the UK’s National Health Service suggests setting a limit on weekly intake, seeking support from friends and family, and opting for smaller-sized drinks.

Preventing viral hepatitis is also crucial in reducing liver cancer risk. Vaccination against hepatitis A and B, practicing safe sex, and avoiding contact with infected blood are important preventive measures. While no vaccine exists for hepatitis C, employing safe practices can help mitigate its spread.

Awareness of liver cancer symptoms is essential for early detection, which can significantly impact treatment outcomes. Symptoms to watch for include jaundice, changes in urine and stool color, itchy skin, loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss, and persistent fatigue.

As the global health community grapples with the rising tide of liver cancer, addressing preventable risk factors presents a critical opportunity to save lives and reduce the burden of this challenging disease.