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How lifestyle choices and late diagnosis are fueling India’s liver cancer crisis – Firstpost
As India marks World Liver Day, health experts are raising concerns over the rising burden of liver cancer, a disease often linked to modern lifestyle habits and late diagnosis. Despite advances in oncology, liver cancer cases, especially hepatocellular carcinoma are climbing steadily in India. Firstpost brings out a doctor’s view to explore the reasons behind the trend, its implications and the ways to address it.
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Liver cancer is rapidly emerging as one of the fastest-growing cancers globally, with India experiencing a consistent rise in cases. Despite progress in oncology, the rising incidence of liver cancer reveals a troubling gap in awareness and preventive efforts.
Most liver cancer cases, particularly hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), occur in people with pre-existing chronic liver disease. Unfortunately, many patients remain unaware of their condition until the disease has advanced to later stages. This highlights the urgent need for early detection and effective prevention strategies.
Firstpost talked to Dr Manjeet Kumar Goyal, Consultant (Gastroenterology) at CK Birla Hospital (Gurugram) to know why liver cancer cases are increasing and the reason behind the alarming trend.
Read Also- Dr Explains: It’s not just alcohol — your diet might be putting your liver at risk
Reasons Behind the Rise
Chronic infections of Hepatitis: Sustained infection of hepatitis C or B leads to a major rise in liver cancer risk.
Excessive alcohol consumption: Continued alcohol consumption results in cirrhosis, a leading precursor.
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD): More prevalent due to obesity and unhealthy lifestyle.
Late diagnosis: Early signs such as fatigue, weight loss, or mild pain are usually overlooked.
Low screening and vaccination rates: Most people are not tested for hepatitis or vaccinated against it.
Unhealthy Lifestyle: Poor diet, which is rich in fats, physical inactivity, and metabolic disease, are contributing causes.
What is alarming is that most of these causes are preventable. A majority of the cases could be prevented just 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 a family history of liver disease or other risk factors.
Limit alcohol consumption: Maintain alcohol intake at recommended levels or abstain from alcohol altogether.
Eat Healthy and maintain an ideal weight: An ideal diet and weight management prevent NAFLD.
Exercise frequently: Exercise benefits overall liver function.
Adopt safe hygiene and sexual practices: To prevent hepatitis B and C infection transmission.
Control medical conditions: Control diabetes, cholesterol, and hypertension to minimize stress on the liver.
Be aware of the symptoms: Don’t dismiss early indicators such as weakness, jaundice of the eyes or skin, and abdominal discomfort.
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