How this happens in liver cancer isn’t confirmed, but several mechanisms have been postulated.
Whatisknown is that several factors increase one’s risk of developing the disease.
Some of them do so substantially, whereas others may raise the risk only a small amount.
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There are other risk factors that are considered, though experts aren’t sure if they are indeed related.
Having a risk factor for liver cancer does not mean that you will develop the disease.
It’s also possible to get liver cancer even if you don’t have any known risk factors.
Get our printable guide for your next doctor’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
It is usually a combination of factors working together that results in the development of a tumor.
Liver cancer is more common in men than women, although the reasons aren’t entirely clear.
Roughly 20 to 30 percent of people who are infected go on to develop cirrhosis.
Most people with hepatitis C are unaware they are infected.
Therefore, it’s recommended that all American adults born between 1945 and 1965 get tested.
Immunosuppression
Immunosuppression increases the risk of liver cancer, as well as other cancers.
HavingHIV/AIDSis associated with a five-fold greater risk of developing liver cancer.
One exposure that the general public may encounter is arsenic in well water.
Approximately 10-15 % of people with sclerosing cholangitis develop cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer).
Aflatoxin Exposure
Though an uncommon risk factor in the United States, this is a more significant one worldwide.
Get our printable guide for your next doctor’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
Lifestyle Risk Factors
Lifestyle factors are important in the development of liver cancer.
Over time, cirrhosis develops with marked scarring of the liver, and often, liver failure.
The parasite that causesschistosomiasishas been studied for its possible role in liver cancer.
Autoimmune hepatitis and gallstones are also risk factors for liver cancer.
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Hepatitis B Foundation.Chronic viral hepatitis.
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MedlinePlus.Hereditary hemochromatosis.
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American Cancer Society.Signs and symptoms of liver cancer.
American Cancer Society.Liver cancer survival rates.
American Cancer Society.What causes liver cancer?
National Cancer Institute.Primary liver cancer treatment (PDQ)health professional version.
