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3 Out of 5 Liver Cancer Cases Preventable, Says Lancet Commission; Calls for Urgent Focus on Hepatitis, Alcohol, and Obesity - Video
Overview
Liver cancer ranks among the top three causes of cancer-related deaths in 46 countries, according to a 2022 study published in the Journal of Hepatology. The report predicts a sharp 35% increase in global liver cancer cases, primarily driven by metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), a severe form of fatty liver disease linked to obesity and type 2 diabetes.
The researchers warn that a growing global population, coupled with rising rates of obesity, alcohol use, and viral hepatitis, could lead to a 55% surge in liver cancer cases by 2040. First author Professor Stephen Chan, of The Chinese University of Hong Kong, emphasized that this presents a critical opportunity to act. “The Lancet Commission's findings present a huge opportunity for countries to target risk factors such as viral hepatitis, alcohol, and obesity to prevent liver cancer and save lives,” he said.
The report calls for a multi-pronged public health approach. This includes intensifying vaccination and screening for hepatitis B and C, implementing stricter alcohol control policies, and investing in public awareness campaigns. It also highlights the importance of early detection, particularly among high-risk groups such as individuals with diabetes or obesity.
Importantly, the commission recommends integrating palliative care early in the treatment process, ensuring quality of life for patients diagnosed with advanced liver cancer. “We estimated that at least 60 per cent of liver cancers are preventable via control of modifiable risk factors,” the report states.
With a targeted global reduction in new liver cancer cases of 2–5% annually, the commission estimates up to 17 million cases and 15 million deaths could be prevented.
Reference: The Lancet Commission on addressing the global hepatocellular carcinoma burden: comprehensive strategies from prevention to treatment, Chan, Stephen Lam et al. The Lancet, Volume 0, Issue 0
Speakers
Dr. Bhumika Maikhuri
BDS, MDS