Worldwideinstance of liver cancer set to double, predominantly preventable according to research
Experts are urging a coordinated, multi-faceted approach to combat the rising trend of liver cancer, with a particular focus on preventable causes such as obesity, alcohol consumption, and viral hepatitis.
On World Hepatitis Day, a large-scale study published in The Lancet medical journal highlighted the urgent need for global action. The study underscores that the viruses that cause hepatitis B and C will continue to be the leading causes of liver cancer in 2050, and unless vaccination rates are increased, hepatitis B is expected to claim the lives of 17 million people between 2015 and 2030.
Vaccination at birth is the most effective method to prevent hepatitis B, but vaccine coverage remains low in poorer countries, including sub-Saharan Africa. To address this, the study advocates for mandating vaccination in high-prevalence countries and improving access to vaccines in underserved regions.
Alcohol consumption is projected to cause over 21% of all liver cancer cases by 2050, an increase of more than two percentage points from 2022. Obesity-linked fat in livers will contribute to 11% of liver cancer cases by 2050, also an increase of more than two percentage points. The study underscores the need for more warnings about fatty-liver disease for people with obesity or diabetes.
Three out of five cases of liver cancer could be prevented. Key strategies to achieve this include expanding hepatitis B vaccination, especially at birth, implementing universal adult hepatitis B and selective hepatitis C screening, tackling obesity and metabolic dysfunction, reducing alcohol misuse, raising public awareness, and integrating lifestyle counseling within routine healthcare.
Modeling studies suggest that with a sustained annual reduction in liver cancer incidence of 2-5% until 2050 through these combined efforts, 9 to 17 million new liver cancer cases could be prevented globally, saving 8 to 15 million lives.
In summary, a global, multi-pronged public health strategy that includes improving vaccination rates in poorer countries, widespread screening, lifestyle and alcohol policies, and education is essential to effectively prevent the growing burden of liver cancer worldwide. The call to action emphasizes the need for immediate action to combat this preventable disease and save millions of lives.
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