Liver cancer is a cancer that starts in the liver, and it is one of the leading causes of death. Unlike other cancer types, liver cancer has no typical symptoms or signs in the early stage and it is usually detected in the late stage, which is why it leads to a high death rate.
Liver disease is a clear warning for liver cancer
Some people will doubt whether their liver goes bad when they feel always tired, have a poor appetite, or find vertical ridges on nails. These symptoms are much associated with overtime working, poor rest and irregular living habits, and have little to do with liver cancer.
Liver disease is a clear warning for liver cancer, and studies have found that liver cancer is associated with cirrhosis of the liver and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and viral hepatitis (hepatitis B and hepatitis C). Viral hepatitis can lead to cirrhosis that possibly evolves into liver cancer.
People with liver disease should really be vigilant on the possible progress into liver cancer.
How to prevent liver cancer?
Some people who know they have the liver disease don’t see it as a big deal. They don’t care about their condition and still lead an unhealthy life with smoking and drinking every day. However, prevention helps reduce the risk of getting liver cancer.
Receive hepatitis B vaccine. The vaccine can protect healthy people from contracting hepatitis B. Newborn babies shall be given the Hepatitis B vaccine, and this is the best way to prevent liver cancer.
Quit drinking alcohol. Long-term alcohol use is linked to an increased risk of liver cancer. People who find it difficult to quit drinking alcohol shall at least avoid alcohol abuse which can damage the liver.
Keep a healthy weight. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is associated with obesity, and people advised to avoid obesity to reduce the chance of developing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Developing a balanced diet and a regular exercise is helpful to control weight.
Besides the above, always remember to do a regular physical screening, especially for the old and people with a family history of the liver disease. This can help a early detection of liver cancer, thereby getting a higher cure rate.