Liver Cancer Risk Factors – Do You Know How to Guard against it?

Cancer of the liver is formed the same way as other types of cancer; the uncontrolled division and multiplication of cells that eventually translated into a mass called tumor. This division and reproduction of the body cells unnecessarily, is as a result of the interruption in the system of checks and balances on the growth of cells. The liver, weighing about two to six ponds is situated at the right side of the upper abdomen; it has multi-functions such as secretion of bile and detoxification of substances. The liver also metabolizes carbohydrates, fats and proteins.

What causes liver cancer?

The exact causes of liver cancer have not been identified. However, some risk factors associated with cancer of the liver have been identified. These risk factors include a compound used as raw material for manufacturing, exposure to vinyl chloride, parasites, cirrhosis and chronic hepatitis. Smoking is also said to be associated with the formation of liver cancer.

Are there symptoms for liver cancer?

The symptoms that can be produced by cancer of the liver include feeling of pain on the right part of the stomach, loss of weight, swelling of the breast (in men), jaundice and heaviness after a meal. However, as it is usual for most types of cancer, there might be no symptom produced by cancer of the liver especially at the early stage.

Tests for liver cancer

A specific test for diagnosing liver cancer is called AFP (alpha-fetoprotein tumor maker test). The essence of this test is to do a general screening on the diseases of the liver. By conducting the tumor maker test, the amount of substances released by cells and organs into the body is measured. Cancer of the liver can be detected if there is a spike in certain levels, using the AFP test. Ultrasound might also be recommended by the doctor for a better viewing of the liver. CT scan and MRI are also imaging tests that can help diagnose the presence of cancer in the liver. The ultimate detection of cancer in the liver is done through biopsy.

How can liver cancer be prevented?

There are controllable as well as uncontrollable factors when it comes to prevention of liver cancer. For instance, we might not be able to prevent exposure to certain chemicals, since we don’t even know that we are being exposed to them in most cases. Also the case of liver cancer arising from issues of genetics cannot be prevented. Other things that can help to reduce the risk factors include cutting down of alcohol consumption. Cirrhosis which is   a risk factor for liver cancer development is caused by excessive consumption of alcohol. A check in alcohol consumption will therefore help in decreasing the risk of getting liver cancer. Also quitting from tobacco use and cigarette smoking is a good way to guard against liver cancer.

Treatment of liver cancer

The stage of the cancer will determine the treatment plan to be used in treating liver cancer. The standard treatment plan might include chemotherapy while another might embark on clinical trials of drugs and treatment methods that are new. Other treatment options include partial hepatectomy, Liver transplant and Radiofrequency ablation.