Liver Cancer Prevention: How to Protect Yourself from Alcohol & Hepatitis

As one of the hardest working body organs, the liver performs several crucial roles, such as filtering toxins, metabolizing and storing nutrients, storing energy, producing bile for digestion and more. But what if our liver health is threatened by the deadly liver cancer?

While the cases of liver cancer are rising globally (approximately 866,136 new cases of liver cancer were recorded worldwide in 2022, according to WCRF’s statistics), there is still hope.

Some cases of liver cancer could be prevented, especially those caused by chronic infection with hepatitis B and C viruses and alcohol abuse.

According to CCI’s experienced oncologist in Noida, it's time to take liver cancer seriously by protecting yourself and your liver from the risk of liver cancer.

Major Causes and Risk Factors for Liver Cancer

Liver cancer starts from hepatocytes, the major parenchymal cells in the liver. When the liver is also damaged by hepatitis infections, chronic alcohol consumption and cirrhosis, the risk of developing cancer in the liver increases.

1.    Hepatitis B & C Infections 

Having one of the viruses – Hepatitis B (HBV) and Hepatitis C (HCV) – for a long time causes scarring in the liver. As a result, liver cirrhosis may develop, which may turn into liver cancer.

How to eliminate the risk of hepatitis-related liver cancer?

• You can take a vaccine for Hepatitis B, while Hepatitis C can be treated with medicine.

• Get tested for HBV and HCV, especially if you are from a place where hepatitis is common, or you have a history of IV drug use or blood transfusions before 1992.

• Once diagnosed, you can visit a good liver cancer doctor in Noida to treat liver cancer and decrease the risk of developing this disease.

2.    Alcohol Consumption & Liver Damage 

Excessive alcohol intake for a long time may lead to alcoholic liver disease or cirrhosis, which we already mentioned, increases the risk of liver cancer.

How to eliminate the risk of alcohol-related liver damage?

• If you drink alcohol, it’s recommended to follow certain rules for safer consumption. Women shouldn’t take more than 1 drink, while men shouldn’t have more than 2 drinks per day.

• Maintain alcohol-free days to allow your liver to rest regularly.

• Look for any warning signs such as fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), or abdominal pain.

• In case of any warning signs or discomfort, reach out to a liver or stomach cancer doctor In Noida to seek immediate medical help.

3.    Obesity and Fatty Liver Disease 

Being overweight may lead to a medical condition called non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Due to fat buildup in the liver cells, the liver cannot function properly, which may progress into serious diseases like cirrhosis and even liver cancer.

How can the risk of developing fatty liver disease be reduced?

• Maintaining a healthy weight has become crucial these days.

• Develop healthy food habits by eating whole foods, consuming low sugar, and eating minimal processed fats.

• Lower your calorie intake with some lifestyle changes like staying active.

4.    Genetic and Hereditary Factors in Liver Cancer

Though not so common, liver cancer may be caused by inherited conditions like hemochromatosis and alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency.

How to prevent these risks?

• If someone from your family has had liver cancer, you should stay alert by undergoing some special tests.

• Tell your oncologist in Delhi about the hereditary influence of liver cancer in your family so the doctor can tailor the strategy to prevent this disease.

5.    Smoking and Environmental Toxins 

While smoking is harmful to your lungs, it also increases the risk of developing liver cancer. Moreover, exposure to chemicals such as arsenic and vinyl chloride for a long time can cause severe damage to the liver.

How to prevent these risks?

• For smoking-related cancer risk, the tough yet straightforward solution is to quit smoking.

• For severe smoking addiction, you can use tools or alternate ways to quit smoking.

• To eliminate exposure to harmful chemicals, drink clean, filtered water.

Strategies to Prevent Liver Cancer: At a Glance

While prevention may not be easy, small steps can add up to big success for your health.

• Get vaccinated against Hepatitis B – the major cause of liver cancer.

• Detect and get treated for Hepatitis C disease to prevent further complications.

• Limit your alcohol consumption to maintain a healthy liver.

• Keep your weight in a healthy range by balanced eating and regular exercise, and physical activities.

• People at a higher risk of liver cancer should get regular screenings by an expert cancer doctor in Noida to detect the early signs of liver cancer.

Liver Cancer Prevention – Key Takeaways

By controlling your alcohol intake, getting vaccinated for Hepatitis B, being proactive about hepatitis diseases, controlling weight and embracing healthy habits, you can take the necessary preventive steps.

To take care of your liver health and prevent risks before it becomes serious, you should visit a reputable cancer doctor in Noida like Dr Manish Singhal for expert guidance, screening and treatment. Book your appointment today!