KNOW IT BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE
Liver is the largest glandular organ which is responsible for many essential functions that the body needs to survive. Liver cancer is the 6 th most common cancer in the world and it is often identified at a later stage as symptoms of liver cancer are not seen in its early stages. According to studies, it is more common in men than women.

Causes of Liver Cancer

• Cirrhosis (a deadly disease of the liver)
• Long term viral infection in the Liver like, hepatitis B and hepatitis C may cause liver cancer as they often lead to cirrhosis
• Hepatitis B can lead to liver cancer without cirrhosis
• Excess alcohol consumption damages liver
• Excess smoking / tobacco intake adds on to toxin load that the liver has to detoxify and thus tobacco / smoking addiction causes cancer.
• Obesity / over weight and diabetes are closely associated with non alcoholic fatty liver disease that may increase the risk of liver cancer
• Certain inherited metabolic diseases like hemochromatosis (too much iron in the body)
• Environmental exposure to aflatoxins.

Most common symptoms of Liver Cancer

Most often symptoms in liver cancer are seen at later stages which include

• Fatigue / tiredness / weakness / exhaustion
• Bloating of abdomen / feeling of fullness (Swollen belly)
• Pain on the right side of the upper abdomen
• Nausea / vomiting
• Reduced appetite
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fever and jaundice (yellowish eyes and skin)

Tests for Liver Cancer

• Blood tests like liver function test (LFT), tumour maker test AFP
• Scans like ultrasound, computed tomography (CT scan ), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI scan)
• Biopsy

How to prevent Liver Cancer

• Take steps to prevent exposure to hepatitis B and hepatitis C infection. Get vaccinated if you cannot avoid infected people around
• If you have cirrhosis or chronic liver disease get treatment and do regular screening tests for liver cancer
• Maintain healthy weight
• Eat healthy food
• Exercise regularly, be fit and active
• Avoid toxic food
• Control diabetes
• Quit smoking / alcohol

“HEAR THE SILENCE OF THE SILENT KILLER BEFORE IT SHOWS UP”