Liver Cancer
Your liver is a football-sized organ that sits in the upper right portion of your abdomen, beneath your diaphragm and above your stomach. It performs essential functions including filtering blood, producing bile, and processing nutrients. Hepatocellular carcinoma is the most common type of primary liver cancer. Most liver cancers occur in people with chronic liver disease (cirrhosis), usually caused by hepatitis B, hepatitis C infection, or heavy alcohol use. Early detection is key to improving outcomes.
Common Subtypes
Key Statistics
Global Context
6th most common cancer and 3rd leading cause of cancer death worldwide.
In India
High mortality rate linked to prevalent Hepatitis B infection; important to vaccinate.
Symptoms
- Unintended weight loss
- Loss of appetite and feeling full after a small meal
- Upper abdominal pain or discomfort
- Nausea and vomiting
- General weakness and fatigue
- Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)
- White, chalky stools
- Abdominal swelling (ascites)
- Enlarged liver or spleen felt under the ribs
Risk Factors
- Chronic Hepatitis B or C infection (major risk)
- Cirrhosis (scarring of the liver)
- Heavy alcohol consumption over many years
- Fatty liver disease (NAFLD/NASH)
- Diabetes and obesity
- Exposure to aflatoxins (mold on crops)
- Hemochromatosis (iron overload)
Treatment Options
Partial Hepatectomy
Surgical removal of the portion of the liver containing the tumor, possible when liver function is good.
Liver Transplant
Replacing the diseased liver with a healthy donor liver, curative for both cancer and underlying cirrhosis.
Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE)
Injecting chemotherapy directly into the tumor's blood supply while blocking blood flow to starve the tumor.
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
Using heat from electric current to destroy cancer cells, suitable for small tumors.
Prevention & Screening
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.