Opening Statement:
Every year in October we recognize Liver Cancer Awareness Month and the link to Hepatitis B. This is an important health observance because almost 300 million people worldwide are living with hepatitis B, and that puts them at higher risk for developing liver cancer.
There Is a Link Between Liver Cancer and Hepatitis B
· The most common type of liver cancer is “primary liver cancer” or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Worldwide, the most common risk factor for primary liver cancer is chronic infection with the hepatitis B virus. Chronic viral hepatitis infections (hepatitis B and hepatitis C) cause about 80% of all liver cancers. Obesity, heavy alcohol use, fatty liver disease (NAFLD or NASH), and some metabolic disorders also increase the risk for primary liver cancer. People chronically infected with hepatitis B are more likely to develop liver cancer than uninfected people because the virus directly and repeatedly attacks the liver. These attacks over time can lead to increased liver damage, cirrhosis (scarring of the liver), and ultimately, liver cancer.
· People with hepatitis B may also be at risk for liver cancer in the absence of cirrhosis. Those who have chronic hepatitis B can reduce their risk of liver cancer through regular medical monitoring, including liver cancer surveillance, taking antiviral treatment if necessary, and making healthy lifestyle changes.
· The best way to prevent liver cancer is to prevent hepatitis B infection! This is why hepatitis B vaccination is so important. When someone gets vaccinated to protect them from getting hepatitis B, they are also helping to prevent liver cancer!
Resources To Learn More About Liver Cancer
· Liver Cancer Connect is a program of the Hepatitis B Foundation that was created to provide individuals and families with the information and support they need when facing the challenge of primary liver cancer.
· Read two liver cancer and hepatitis B vignettes that highlight real life experiences:
1. Ignore it till it goes away
2. If it's not broken, don't fix it.
Understand What Your Liver Is and Facts:
· The liver is one of the largest organs in the body.
· It filters harmful substances from the blood, produces bile that helps in the digestion of fats, and stores sugar that the body uses for energy.
What Are the Two Types of Primary Liver Cancer?”
Hepatocellular carcinoma and Cholangiocarcinoma
Hepatocellular carcinoma is the most common type of adult primary liver cancer. It is relatively rare in the United States, although its incidence is rising, principally in relation to the spread of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection.
New Estimates:
· The National Cancer Institute’s Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program estimates that 41,210 new cases of liver and intrahepatic bile duct cancer will be diagnosed in the United States in 2023, and approximately 29,380 people are expected to die of primary adult liver cancer. The five-year relative survival rate is just 21.6 percent.
· Having hepatitis B, hepatitis C, or cirrhosis are significant risk factors for adult primary liver cancer. Liver cancer is more common in men than women, and among Asian/Pacific Islander and American Indian/Alaska Native populations.
The Latest on Liver Cancer
· Adding stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) to chemotherapy improves overall survival and slows cancer progression in patients with advanced liver cancer, according to a recent clinical trial.
· A study found that a drug combination — tezolizumab and bevacizumab — administered following surgery for liver cancer was associated with a lower recurrence of the disease.
· Advances in cancer research—the many successes, treatments and therapies created, and lives saved—are made by dedicated scientists with the support of funding. Funding doesn’t just happen as it requires a community engaged and aware of the needs. There are many ways that you can help us rally the community; creating connections and motivating donations.
Closing Statement:
While conducting my research on Liver Cancer and the Link to Hepatitis B, I became more knowledgeable on how you can reduce your risk naturally for developing liver cancer by following healthy lifestyle measures, such as regular exercise, controlling your weight, and eating a healthy diet with limited amounts of alcohol. It's also important to avoid infection with the hepatitis B and C viruses. Everyone needs to get an annual well visit with their healthcare provider and follow through with all testing that is recommended by your doctor.
Source of Information: Various Google Searches
Until Next Week, Stay Safe and Well!
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