Reducing Risk Of Liver Cancer: A Call To Act On World Hepatitis Day
Let us understand the connection between hepatitis and liver cancer and what we can do to reduce the risk
Every year, World Hepatitis Day, observed on July 28, brings global attention to one of the most pressing public health challenges — viral hepatitis, which affects over 350 million people worldwide. Among its many consequences, one of the gravest is liver cancer, particularly hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which often arises silently in the backdrop of chronic hepatitis B or C infections.
On this important day, let us understand the connection between hepatitis and liver cancer and what we can do to reduce the risk.
Understanding the link
Chronic infection with Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is the leading cause of liver cancer globally. These viruses can silently inflame the liver for years, gradually leading to cirrhosis, genetic mutations, and ultimately cancer. According to WHO, up to 80% of liver cancer cases can be attributed to viral hepatitis.
Simple blood tests (HBsAg for HBV, Anti-HCV for HCV) can identify carriers.
Liver function tests and ultrasound help in early cancer detection.
HBV: Long-term use of drugs like tenofovir or entecavir reduces viral replication and progression to cirrhosis or cancer.
HCV: Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) offer 95% cure rates, reducing the risk of liver cancer even in patients with advanced fibrosis.
Avoid alcohol and toxins
Chronic alcohol use and exposure to aflatoxins (from contaminated grains) synergize with hepatitis to worsen liver injury. Limiting or eliminating alcohol, ensuring food safety, and avoiding unnecessary herbal or over-the-counter medications that affect the liver are critical.
Control of metabolic risk factors
Conditions like diabetes, obesity, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are rising globally and may compound liver damage in viral hepatitis patients. Lifestyle changes — healthy diet, regular exercise, and glucose control — are essential.
Regular surveillance in high-risk groups
Individuals with chronic HBV or HCV, or with liver cirrhosis, should undergo regular ultrasound and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) testing every 6 months. Early detection of HCC dramatically improves survival.
A shared responsibility
Preventing liver cancer is not just the responsibility of doctors or patients — it is a collective public health mission. Governments, communities, healthcare systems, and individuals must unite to:
Improve awareness about viral hepatitis.
Increase access to vaccination and testing.
Eliminate the stigma around hepatitis.
Expand availability of affordable treatment.
Conclusion
Liver cancer is largely preventable. On this World Hepatitis Day, let us commit to educate, vaccinate, test, and treat. With informed action today, we can ensure a future where hepatitis-related liver cancer becomes a rarity, not a global burden.
Let's act now — for liver, lives, and for a hepatitis-free world.
Dr Madhu Sasidharan is Senior Consultant, Department of Gastroenterology, KIMSHEALTH, Thiruvananthapuram. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18's views.
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