There
are a number of risk factors associated with liver cancer. Some of
these risk factors cannot be avoided such as certain genetic
conditions, your age and gender. However, other risk factors can be
reduced through lifestyle changes and taking preventative measures.
Understanding your risk factors and how you can reduce your risk
gives you the best chance of protecting yourself against the
development of liver cancer.
Protect
yourself from viral hepatitis infections
An
estimated 71% of liver cancer cases worldwide are caused by infection
with hepatitis B virus (HBV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV). Hepatitis
causes swelling and inflammation of the liver, and the accumulation
of this liver damage over time can increase the risk of liver cancer.
People infected with both HBV and HCV have an even greater risk of
liver cancer.
Get
vaccinated against hepatitis B
The
hepatitis
B vaccine
has been available since 1982, with the vaccination programme
commencing in Australia in 1988, and provides over 90% protection
against hepatitis B. Hepatitis B infection is one of the leading risk
factors for liver cancer, and keeping up with your vaccinations is
your best defence against this disease.
Take
measures to prevent hepatitis C
Infection
with HCV is a major risk factor for liver cancer. There is currently
no vaccine for HCV, however a number of preventative strategies are
advised to tackle the issue of HCV infection. The biggest risk of
contracting HCV is through injecting drugs, with other sources of
transmission including sexual intercourse and unsafe needles used for
tattoos or piercing. To help prevent HCV infection, practice safe
sex, don't inject illegal drugs (or if this isn't currently an
option, do not share needles and ensure your needle is sterile), and
seek hygienic tattoo and piercing stores.
Reduce
your risk of cirrhosis:
Cirrhosis,
or liver scarring, which is one of the main risk factors for liver
cancer. Cirrhosis is caused by prolonged liver damage that results in
scar tissue replacing healthy liver tissue, preventing proper blood
flow through the liver and affecting its ability to function.
Cirrhosis
can result from other liver conditions such as non-alcoholic fatty
liver disease (NAFLD) or infection with viral hepatitis.
Reduce
your alcohol intake
Long-term
alcohol abuse is a key cause of cirrhosis. Reducing your alcohol
intake, or not drinking at all, can help reduce your risk of
developing cirrhosis and liver cancer. It is recommended that women
do not drink more than 1 alcoholic drink a day, and men do not drink
more than two alcoholic drinks per day.
Reduce
your risk and treat other liver conditions:
Other
liver conditions such as NAFLD cause liver damage, and over a period
of time this can lead to cirrhosis and liver cancer.
Lose
weight SAFELY
Obesity
and being overweight is a risk factor for NAFLD which in itself if a
risk factor for liver cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a
healthy diet and exercising regularly is a key protective factor for
numerous diseases including liver cancer. Talk to your doctor if you
are concerned about your weight, and if you need to lose weight, make
sure you do so safely as rapid weight loss can be dangerous. It is
recommended not to lose more than 1/2-1kg per week. To lose weight
safely, and maintain a healthy weight once you have reached it, you
should eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly.
If
you have a high risk of developing liver cancer, talk to your doctor
about how you can reduce your risk.
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