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Free Malaysia Today
2 days ago
- Health
- Free Malaysia Today
74% of cases ‘detected at advanced stage': Malaysia's silent liver cancer crisis
Liver cancer is the eighth most-common cancer in Malaysia, with the second-lowest five-year survival rate of just 12.8%. (Envato Elements pic) KUALA LUMPUR : Hepatitis B is still endemic in Malaysia, while over 21.3% of the population is classified as obese. Both of these are key causes of metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease, which is putting more and more Malaysians at risk of liver cancer Hepatitis B is still endemic in Malaysia, while over 21.3% of the population is classified as obese. Both of these are key causes of metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease, which is putting more and more Malaysians at risk of Alarmingly, many cases of liver cancer go undetected until the disease is in late stages. Consultant general, hepatobiliary pancreatic and liver surgeon Dr Johann Faizal Khan said one of the biggest barriers to improving liver cancer outcomes is the lack of effective public screening programmes. 'While high-risk individuals such as those with liver cirrhosis and chronic viral hepatitis are screened, patients who appear relatively healthy may not realise they have either of these diseases,' he said. This issue is not unique to Malaysia: it reflects a global trend, with healthcare institutions now dealing with the long-term effects of undiagnosed or untreated chronic liver conditions. According to the health ministry, liver cancer, especially hepatocellular carcinoma, remains one of the leading causes of premature death in Malaysia. It is the eighth most-common cancer in Malaysia – and has the second-lowest five-year survival rate among major cancers, at just 12.8%. Alarmingly, 74% of cases are diagnosed at the most advanced stage (stage four), where treatment options are limited and outcomes significantly poorer. Dr Johan Faizal Khan. 'The absence of early symptoms should not be mistaken for an assurance of good health. Many individuals who do not drink alcohol or engage in what are typically considered 'high-risk' behaviours assume they are not at risk. 'In reality, liver cancer can develop silently, without any warning signs,' said Johann, who advocates for regular screenings regardless of perceived health status, as early detection remains the most effective way to improve outcomes. While late detection remains a challenge, a range of innovative treatment options are available to give renewed hope to patients. Minimally invasive procedures, such as ablation therapies, offer a viable alternative to open surgery by reducing surgical trauma, blood loss, and recovery time. 'However, not all tumours are suitable for minimally invasive approaches. Larger tumours or those requiring complex reconstructions may still necessitate traditional open surgery, especially when complete resection – the removal of all traces of cancer – is the goal,' Johann noted. Treatments for liver cancer are guided by a personalised approach, with emphasis on tailoring care to each patient. (Envato Elements pic) In such cases, a partial hepatectomy may be performed to surgically remove the cancerous portion of the liver, allowing the liver to regenerate post-surgery. For patients with more extensive liver damage, a transplant may be required, involving the replacement of the entire diseased liver with a healthy donor organ. While each methods carries its own set of risks, Johann stressed that they do not compete as treatments are guided by a personalised approach, with care and precision medication tailored to each patient. Even after successful treatment, however, patients with underlying conditions such as chronic viral hepatitis, liver fibrosis or cirrhosis remain at lifelong risk. While treatment can halt progression, continued surveillance is critical to detect recurrence early. Equally important is the patient's role in maintaining liver health. Follow-up care goes beyond medical appointments, with patients strongly advised to adopt healthier lifestyle habits, including consuming a balanced diet, and avoiding alcohol, smoking and unregulated traditional medicine – all of which play a critical role in supporting long-term liver health and recovery. 'Empowering patients with the knowledge and tools to take charge of their liver health will be just as critical as medical treatment in shaping long-term outcomes,' Johann concluded.
CBC
13-06-2025
- Health
- CBC
Take tick precautions, but Lyme disease rates remain quite low on Prince Edward Island
More and more ticks have been catching a ride into the province of P.E.I. over the last few years. Ticks have been known to attach themselves to human skin, as well as hop onto furry pets, but medical experts say it's not causing a big jump in Lyme disease rates so far. CBC's Tony Davis reports.
