Liver Cancer: The Silent Threat to Watch Out For - Regular Health Checks, Vaccination, and Avoiding Alcohol Recommended

Dr. Nattapong Wongwiwat, Deputy Director General of the Department of Medical Services, revealed that liver cancer is caused by mutations and abnormal growth of liver cells. Most patients often have pre-existing liver conditions, particularly cirrhosis, which may result from factors such as alcohol consumption or hepatitis B or C infection, or fatty liver disease.

However, some patients with chronic hepatitis B infection or fatty liver disease may develop liver cancer without prior cirrhosis. Data from the Southern Cancer Registry from fiscal years 2021-2023 shows that liver cancer ranks among the top 10 most common cancers in the southern region. Since liver cancer often does not present symptoms in the early stages, it usually becomes apparent only in the mid to late stages when treatment is more challenging, leading to a relatively high mortality rate. Early diagnosis and care by specialists can reduce the severity of symptoms and increase the chances of a complete cure.

Dr. Nitima Srikaew, Director of Surat Thani Cancer Hospital, Department of Medical Services, mentioned that liver cancer is found in men about twice as often as in women, typically between the ages of 30 and 70. The primary causes are often related to hepatitis B and C infections, cirrhosis, and heavy alcohol consumption. Another significant cause is aflatoxin, a highly carcinogenic substance produced by molds, commonly found in dried peanuts, corn, dried chilies, garlic, soy sauce, cottonseed, millet, and cassava. If symptoms such as a palpable lump under the right rib cage, right upper abdominal pain, jaundice, abdominal swelling, loss of appetite, or unexplained weight loss occur, it is essential to consult a doctor for diagnosis. Currently, hepatitis B vaccination is administered to newborns, but those born before 1992, before the vaccine was available, can undergo free screening for hepatitis B and C at local hospitals as part of the Ministry of Public Health's comprehensive cancer care policy to detect and treat hepatitis before it progresses to cirrhosis or liver cancer.

Dr. Attawit Panichkul, a gastroenterologist and hepatologist at Surat Thani Cancer Hospital, added that liver cancer patients often seek treatment when the disease is severe or in the late stages, making it difficult to achieve a cure and posing a risk of death. Regular health check-ups, especially for at-risk individuals, are recommended with the slogan, "Early detection, early treatment, greater chance of a cure." Prevention remains the best approach, including vaccination against hepatitis for those who have never been vaccinated and are not immune, regular screening for hepatitis and liver cancer markers in at-risk groups, and possibly liver ultrasound every six months as advised by a doctor. Self-care through a balanced diet, regular consumption of fruits and vegetables, regular exercise, weight control, and avoiding alcohol and smoking are also recommended. These measures not only reduce the risk of liver cancer but also help protect against other diseases.

Source: https://www.thaihealth.or.th/?p=369800.

Source: Arokago Health Library.