Liver Cancer
Overview
Liver cancer begins in the cells of the liver, a large organ in the upper right abdomen responsible for filtering blood, processing nutrients, producing bile, and removing toxins from the body. The most common type is hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which develops in hepatocytes, the main liver cells. Less common types include intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma and hepatoblastoma.
Cancers that spread to the liver from other organs such as the colon, lung, or breast occur far more often than cancers that start in the liver. These are considered metastatic cancers and are named for the organ where they began.
Because the liver can continue functioning even when damaged, liver cancer may not cause symptoms until it is more advanced. Early evaluation and prompt care are important for the best outcomes.
Signs & Symptoms
Liver cancer often causes no noticeable symptoms in its early stages. As the disease progresses, symptoms may develop and may vary from person to person. Common signs and symptoms may include:
- Unintentional weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen
- Nausea or vomiting
- General fatigue or weakness
- Abdominal swelling
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
- Pale or chalky stools
If you experience persistent or unusual symptoms, talk with your doctor for further evaluation.
Causes
Liver cancer develops when liver cells undergo changes in their DNA. These changes affect how the cells grow and function, allowing them to multiply uncontrollably and form a tumor. Over time, cancer cells can spread to nearby tissue or other parts of the body.
Some cases of liver cancer are linked to long-term liver damage, such as chronic hepatitis B or hepatitis C infection. However, liver cancer can also occur in people with no known underlying liver disease, and in these situations the exact cause is not always clear.
Risk Factors
Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing liver cancer. Having one or more risk factors does not mean you will develop the disease, but awareness can support early monitoring and prevention.
- Chronic hepatitis B or hepatitis C infection: Long-term infection with HBV or HCV is one of the strongest risk factors and can lead to cirrhosis and liver cancer.
- Cirrhosis: Scarring of the liver from conditions such as chronic hepatitis, heavy alcohol use, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, or inherited disorders increases risk.
- Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: Fat buildup in the liver, often related to obesity or metabolic syndrome, raises the risk of HCC.
- Excessive alcohol use: Drinking heavily over many years can cause irreversible liver damage and increase cancer risk.
- Diabetes: People with diabetes have a higher risk, especially when combined with obesity or fatty liver disease.
- Inherited liver conditions: Disorders such as hemochromatosis or Wilson disease can lead to long-term liver damage and increase risk.
- Aflatoxin exposure: Long-term exposure to aflatoxins, a toxin found in poorly stored grains and nuts, increases risk in some parts of the world.
- Older age: The risk of hepatocellular carcinoma rises with age, with most cases diagnosed in adults over 65.
Prevention
Cirrhosis is a major risk factor for liver cancer. You can lower your risk by limiting alcohol intake, maintaining a healthy weight, choosing a balanced diet, and staying physically active. If weight loss is needed, gradual changes are safest and most effective.
A hepatitis B vaccine is available and recommended for infants, adults, and people with weakened immune systems. Vaccination lowers the risk of chronic infection, which is a leading cause of liver cancer.
There is no vaccine for hepatitis C, but you can reduce your risk by practicing safer sex, avoiding the use of shared needles, and choosing reputable, sterile facilities for tattoos or piercings.
Effective antiviral treatments can reduce liver damage and significantly lower the risk of liver cancer. If you have a chronic infection, regular follow-up is important.
Screening may be recommended for people at higher risk, such as those with chronic hepatitis B or C or those with cirrhosis. Screening typically includes a blood test and liver ultrasound every six months. Talk with your doctor about whether screening is right for you.
Treatments & Services
Treatment Options
Treatment for liver cancer depends on the size and location of the tumor, how well the liver is functioning, and overall health. Options aim to remove the cancer, slow its growth, or manage symptoms while supporting liver function.
Service Options
Supportive care services help patients and families navigate treatment, manage symptoms, and maintain quality of life throughout their liver cancer journey.
Find Care
If you have been diagnosed with liver cancer or are experiencing symptoms, connecting with a specialist is an important next step. Find a provider or location near you to learn more about evaluation, treatment options, and ongoing support.
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