DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

Back to Globe
Cancer

Hepatocellular Carcinoma

HIGH SEVERITY

The most common type of primary liver cancer, usually developing in the setting of chronic liver disease (cirrhosis) or chronic hepatitis B. Third leading cause of cancer death globally. Rising incidence in US due to NAFLD epidemic.

Global Affected

905.0K

Countries

15

Symptoms

Abdominal pain/RUQ mass
Unintentional weight loss
Loss of appetite
Nausea
Jaundice
Ascites
Hepatic encephalopathy

Treatment Options

Surgery
Chemotherapy
Radiation therapy
Immunotherapy
Targeted therapy
Hormone therapy
Stem cell transplant
Palliative care

Risk Factors

1Age
2Family history
3Genetic mutations
4Smoking
5Alcohol consumption
6Obesity
7Physical inactivity
8Environmental exposures
9Infections (HPV, HBV, HCV, H. pylori)

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1Biopsy
  • 2Imaging (CT, MRI, PET)
  • 3Tumor markers
  • 4Genetic testing
  • 5Endoscopy
  • 6Blood tests
  • 7Screening programs

Prognosis

Early-stage (single tumor <5cm or 3 tumors <3cm) with liver transplant offers 70-80% 5-year survival. Surgical resection in compensated cirrhosis offers 50-70% 5-year survival. Locally advanced disease with TACE or radioembolization has 20-40% 2-year survival. Metastatic disease with immunotherapy (atezolizumab/bevacizumab) has median survival 20-24 months. Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) staging guides treatment. Underlying liver function significantly impacts outcomes.

Prevention

  • Smoking cessation
  • Sun protection
  • Healthy diet
  • Regular exercise
  • Vaccination (HPV, HBV)
  • Screening programs
  • Limit alcohol
  • Maintain healthy weight

Research Status

Atezolizumab/bevacizumab first-line immunotherapy approved. Tislelizumab approved. Lenvatinib and sorafenib (TKIs) options. Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) for intermediate stage. Liver transplant for early HCC within Milan criteria.

Affected Countries

BangladeshBrazilChinaEgyptUnited KingdomIndonesiaIndiaJapanNigeriaNorwayPakistanSlovakiaThailandUnited StatesVietnam

Sources

  • https://www.cancer.gov
  • https://www.who.int/cancer
  • https://www.cancer.org

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.