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India.com
3 days ago
- Health
- India.com
Dipika Kakar Diagnosed With Stage 2 Liver Cancer: Crucial Signs You Cant Afford To Miss, What Are The Red Flags
New Delhi: Popular television actress Dipika Kakar recently shared an update about her health on Instagram. She has been diagnosed with Stage 2 Liver Cancer, leaving her family, close friends and fans heartbroken. Dr Srujan Kumar Dasyam, consultant medical gastroenterologist, hepatologist and therapeutic, KIMS Hospital Hyderabad shared his insights on understanding the causes and symptoms of liver cancer is so vital. Catching it early dramatically improves treatment success, a truth underscored by recent cases, including public figures. Liver cancer, especially hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) — the most common type — typically emerges in livers already compromised. Experts at Johns Hopkins Medicine and Mayo Clinic consistently point to chronic viral hepatitis (Hepatitis B and C) as a primary culprit. These viruses spark ongoing inflammation, scarring (cirrhosis), and eventually, a higher risk of cancerous changes. But they're not the only risk factors: * Cirrhosis, no matter the cause: Whether it's from heavy alcohol use, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), or other conditions, cirrhosis creates a breeding ground for cancer. NAFLD, now more common with rising rates of obesity, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes, is a growing concern. * Heavy drinking: Too much alcohol directly harms liver cells, leading to inflammation and scarring that can progress to cirrhosis and cancer. * Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes: These conditions are strongly linked to NAFLD, which can escalate to severe liver disease and, ultimately, cancer. * Certain inherited liver conditions: Diseases like hemochromatosis can also elevate your risk. * Exposure to specific toxins: For instance, aflatoxins, a mold byproduct found in improperly stored crops, are known carcinogens. The tricky part about liver cancer is its sneaky nature; symptoms often don't show up until the disease has advanced. This makes staying vigilant incredibly important. Here are some critical red flags, highlighted by Mayo Clinic and Johns Hopkins Medicine, that you should never brush aside: * Unexplained weight loss and poor appetite: Losing a significant amount of weight without trying, along with a lack of hunger, can be a major warning sign. * Upper abdominal pain or discomfort: A dull ache or discomfort, often in the upper right side of your belly, needs attention. * Persistent nausea and vomiting: If you're constantly feeling sick to your stomach or throwing up, it's a symptom to address. * Constant weakness and fatigue: Feeling unusually drained and lacking energy could signal an underlying issue. * Abdominal swelling (ascites): Fluid buildup in your belly causing noticeable distension is a serious indicator. * Jaundice: A yellowish tint to your skin and the whites of your eyes points to problems with liver function. * Changes in stool or urine color: If your stools become pale or chalky, or your urine turns unusually dark, it could indicate a bile duct issue. * Unrelenting itching: This can occur when bile salts accumulate under the skin. Liver Cancer in India: The Shifting Landscape In India, liver cancer presents a significant public health challenge, with its incidence showing an upward trend over the last decade. From 2004 to 2014, the overall hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) incidence rate in India saw an 11% increase, rising from an age-standardized rate of 3.0 to 3.3 per 100,000 persons. While still lower than in some global regions, this rise is a cause for concern. Demographically, liver cancer disproportionately affects males, with a male-to-female ratio often cited around 4:1. The age of presentation typically varies, but a significant number of cases are seen between 40 to 70 years, with some studies indicating peaks around 40-55 years and again above 60 years. This bimodal distribution is often linked to the timing of hepatitis B infection acquisition. While Hepatitis B remains a dominant cause, the increasing prevalence of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), driven by rising rates of obesity and type 2 diabetes in the Indian population, is swiftly becoming a major contributor to the climbing HCC incidence. This demographic shift highlights the urgent need for public health strategies focusing on lifestyle interventions to prevent NAFLD. What Patients Need to Know: Spotting Red Flags and Getting Screened If you notice any of these persistent symptoms, particularly if you have known risk factors for liver disease, don't wait — reach out to your doctor immediately. Getting evaluated quickly is essential. Your doctor might order blood tests (including liver function tests and AFP, a tumor marker), imaging like ultrasounds, CT scans, or MRIs, and in some cases, a liver biopsy for a definitive diagnosis. If you have chronic Hepatitis B or C, or cirrhosis, talk to your doctor about regular screening protocols. The Horizon of Hope: Advances in Liver Cancer Research While the path to managing liver cancer can be challenging, groundbreaking research is continually offering new hope. Scientists are making strides in several key areas: * Immunotherapy and Combination Treatments: A major breakthrough has been the integration of immunotherapy drugs with targeted therapies or localized treatments like transarterial chemoembolization (TACE). These combinations are showing significant promise in extending lives and improving outcomes, even in advanced stages of the disease, by harnessing the body's own immune system to fight cancer. * Non-Invasive Therapies: Innovative procedures like Histotripsy are emerging, using focused ultrasound waves to destroy tumors without the need for incisions, leading to fewer complications and faster recovery for eligible patients. * Smarter Diagnostics: Beyond traditional imaging, new blood tests (some combining multiple markers with demographic data) are being developed to detect liver cancer earlier, even before symptoms appear. The use of liquid biopsies, which analyze cancer cells or DNA fragments in blood, offers a less invasive way to diagnose and monitor the disease. Furthermore, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is being integrated into imaging to enhance the accuracy and speed of detection. These advancements represent a dynamic shift in how liver cancer is treated and diagnosed, offering more personalized and effective options for patients. Boosting Your Liver Health: Practical Advice for Everyone Beyond early detection, actively protecting your liver is a powerful preventive step. Here's what you can do: * Go easy on alcohol, or cut it out entirely: This is fundamental to preventing liver damage. * Maintain a healthy weight: Combat obesity with a balanced diet and regular exercise to prevent and manage NAFLD. * Eat smart: Load up on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats. * Get vaccinated: Make sure you're protected against Hepatitis A and B if you're at risk. * Practice safe habits: Use safe sex practices and avoid shared needles to significantly lower your risk of Hepatitis B and C. * Be careful with meds and supplements: Always follow dosage instructions and tell your doctor about everything you're taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, as some can harm your liver. * Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water helps your liver with its crucial detoxification work. By understanding what causes liver cancer, recognizing its warning signs, and taking proactive steps for liver health, we can all contribute to reducing its impact and embracing a future with more effective treatments.
Hindustan Times
15-05-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Doctor shares 7 early signs of liver cirrhosis and 5 tips to prevent liver damage
Liver cirrhosis is the irreversible scarring of the liver, often marked by subtle early symptoms that make early diagnosis and medical intervention challenging. In an interview with HT lifestyle, Dr. Srujan Kumar Dasyam, consultant medical gastroenterologist, hepatologist & therapeutic endoscopist, KIMS Hospitals, Hyderabad said, 'While symptoms can vary, being vigilant for the following seven early indicators warrants medical attention and liver function evaluation.' 1. Fatigue and weakness: Persistent and unexplained fatigue is a common early complaint. This isn't the tiredness after a long day; it's a profound lack of energy that interferes with daily activities. 2. Nausea and loss of appetite: Mild but persistent nausea and a decreased desire to eat can also signal early liver dysfunction. 3. Right upper quadrant discomfort: A dull ache or discomfort in the upper right abdomen, where the liver is located, may be an early indicator. While not always severe, this sensation can reflect inflammation or early changes in liver size and texture. 4. Easy bruising and bleeding: The liver produces proteins essential for blood clotting. As cirrhosis develops, this production can be impaired, leading to easier bruising and a tendency to bleed more readily from minor cuts or nosebleeds. 5. Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes): While often considered a later-stage symptom, mild jaundice, a yellowish tinge to the skin and whites of the eyes, can sometimes appear earlier. This occurs due to the buildup of bilirubin, a yellow pigment that the liver normally processes and excretes. 6. Itching: Persistent itching, particularly without a rash, can be an early sign of cirrhosis. This is thought to be related to the accumulation of bile salts under the skin due to impaired liver function. 7. Spider angiomas: These are small, spider-like blood vessels that may appear on the skin, particularly on the chest, abdomen, and face. They occur due to hormonal imbalances and changes in blood vessel regulation associated with liver disease. 1. Limit or avoid alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption is a major cause of liver damage. Reducing or eliminating alcohol intake can significantly decrease this risk. 2. Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity increases the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which can progress to cirrhosis. A balanced diet and regular physical activity are key to maintaining a healthy weight. 3. Eat a liver-friendly diet: Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit your intake of saturated and unhealthy fats, processed foods, and excessive sugar. 4. Regular exercise: Physical activity helps manage weight, reduces fat buildup in the liver, and improves overall metabolic health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise most days of the week. 5. Be cautious with medications: Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Some medications can be harmful to the liver, especially when taken in high doses or combined. ALSO READ: Dangers of fatty liver: 5 reasons it's rising in young, lifestyle tweaks to reverse it Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
India.com
30-04-2025
- Health
- India.com
Is Sedentary Lifestyle Linked To Fatty Liver Disease? Expert Advice On MASLD
In modern society, a sedentary lifestyle has become increasingly prevalent, characterized by prolonged periods of sitting, minimal physical activity, and high screen time. While the detrimental effects of this lifestyle on cardiovascular health and metabolic disorders like diabetes are well-established, its significant association with Metabolic dysfunction associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) is gaining increasing recognition within the medical community. Spokesperson Dr Srujan Kumar Dasyam, Consultant Medical Gastroenterologist, Hepatologist & Therapeutic Endoscopist, KIMS Hospital Hyderabad shares tips with us on how to improve liver health: MASLD is a condition where excess fat accumulates in the liver of individuals who consume little to no alcohol. It's a spectrum of conditions, ranging from simple steatosis (fatty liver) to Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH), which involves inflammation and liver cell damage, potentially leading to fibrosis, end stage liver disease called Cirhhosis and even liver cancer/Hepatocellular carcinoma. Several possible connections elucidate how a sedentary lifestyle contributes to the development and progression of MASLD. Firstly, reduced physical activity leads to decreased energy expenditure. This can result in a positive energy balance, where excess calories are stored as fat, including in the liver. As highlighted by Johns Hopkins Medicine, obesity and excess body weight, particularly abdominal fat, are significant risk factors for MASLD. Secondly, a sedentary lifestyle is often associated with metabolic dysfunction. According to the Mayo Clinic, insulin resistance, a condition where the body's cells become less responsive to insulin, is strongly linked to MASLD. Lack of physical activity can exacerbate insulin resistance, leading to increased fat storage in the liver. Furthermore, sedentary behavior can negatively impact lipid metabolism, resulting in elevated levels of triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, further contributing to hepatic steatosis. Moreover, chronic low-grade inflammation, often seen in individuals with sedentary habits and obesity, may play a crucial role in the progression from simple fatty liver to NASH. Adipose tissue, especially visceral fat that accumulates with inactivity, releases pro-inflammatory cytokines, which can promote liver inflammation and damage. Advice for Patients to Improve Liver Health: For patients with or at risk of MASLD, adopting a more active lifestyle is paramount. Here are some practical steps: * Incorporate Regular Physical Activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, such as brisk walking, jogging, or cycling. Even shorter bursts of activity throughout the day can be beneficial. Johns Hopkins Medicine emphasizes that lifestyle changes, including weight loss through diet and exercise, are crucial for managing MASLD. * Reduce Sedentary Time: Break up long periods of sitting with short walks or standing breaks every 30 minutes. Consider incorporating standing desks or active workstations. * Adopt a Healthy Diet: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit the intake of saturated and trans fats, processed foods, and sugary drinks. * Gradual Weight Loss: If overweight or obese, aim for gradual and sustainable weight loss, typically 1-2 pounds per week. Losing even 5-10% of body weight can significantly improve liver health. * Manage Underlying Conditions: Effectively manage conditions like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol, as these are closely linked to NAFLD. By understanding the detrimental impact of a sedentary lifestyle on liver health and implementing these lifestyle adjustments, patients can take proactive steps towards improving their liver health and reducing the risk of NAFLD progression. Regular consultation with healthcare professionals is essential for personalized advice and monitoring.
