Rapidly Rising Liver Cancer Rates Linked to Liver Damage

Liver cancer cases have tripled since 1980, with deaths nearly doubling, according to the National Cancer Institute. The most common type of liver cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is primarily linked to liver damage—a factor that distinguishes it from many other cancers.

“Unlike other cancers, we know what the culprit is for the most part — and that’s anything that damages the liver,” explains Tanios Bekaii-Saab, M.D., a liver and gastrointestinal cancer specialist at Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center and the David F. and Margaret T. Grohne Professor of Novel Therapeutics for Cancer Research.

The Connection Between Liver Damage and Cancer

The liver’s ability to regenerate is remarkable but not unlimited. Chronic damage leads to scarring, or cirrhosis, increasing cancer risk. Repeated cycles of damage and repair can result in DNA mutations, triggering tumor growth.

“If we can prevent or limit damage to the liver, we can reduce the likelihood of cancer developing,” says Dr. Bekaii-Saab.

Common Causes of Liver Damage

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD): Formerly known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease this condition is linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other metabolic disorders, and is a leading cause of liver cancer in the U.S.

Hepatitis B and C: Chronic infections can cause inflammation and scarring. Hepatitis B is preventable with a vaccine, while Hepatitis C can be cured with medication, though the long-term cancer risk remains under study.

Alcohol consumption: Even moderate drinking carries some risk. Excessive alcohol use significantly increases the likelihood of liver damage and cancer.

Preventing Liver Cancer

Prevention starts with protecting liver health. Vaccination against hepatitis B, early screening for hepatitis C, and lifestyle changes, such as managing weight, reducing alcohol consumption, and treating metabolic conditions, are critical steps.

“Understanding and acknowledging all the factors that increase the risk of liver cancer is important,” says Dr. Bekaii-Saab. Regular check-ups and screenings allow for early detection of liver damage, which often progresses silently until advanced stages.

Hope Through Advances in Treatment

For those diagnosed with liver cancer, modern treatments offer renewed hope. “Immunotherapy has revolutionized how we treat liver cancer,” says Dr. Bekaii-Saab. A multidisciplinary approach is essential for optimal care. Mayo Clinic’s liver program integrates experts across oncology, hepatology, radiology, and transplant services, providing comprehensive and cutting-edge treatment.

If you are diagnosed with liver cancer or a high-risk factor like MASLD or cirrhosis, you should know that treatments are better than ever and liver cancer clinical trials are exploring more new and improved options.

Adapted from original article published in Mayo Clinic comprehensive Cancer Center blog