Main causes of primary liver cancer

The main causes of primary liver cancer include genetic factors, environmental factors (such as hepatitis B virus, drinking), physiological factors (underlying diseases such as cirrhosis), and pathological cell malignancy. Understanding these causes can help early detection and prevention of liver cancer.

1. Genetic factors

People with a family history of liver cancer have a higher risk of developing primary liver cancer. This may be related to family-inherited gene mutations, such as gene damage related to tumor suppression. In families with a high incidence of hepatitis B and hepatitis C, the risk of infection in offspring is increased because the virus is transmitted from mother to child and through blood. If there is a family history of the disease, liver function and liver tests should be performed regularly to detect abnormalities in a timely manner.

2. Hepatitis B and C virus infection

This is one of the most common environmental factors for primary liver cancer. Long-term viral infection can lead to chronic inflammation, which in turn causes liver cell damage, gene mutations, and cirrhosis. Especially in Asian countries, hepatitis B is one of the main causes. The risk of infection can be effectively reduced by vaccination with hepatitis B vaccine. For people who have been infected with hepatitis B or hepatitis C virus, they should take antiviral drugs (such as entecavir, tenofovir, etc.) according to the doctor's advice and regularly monitor the viral load and liver health.

3. Excessive drinking and unhealthy diet

Long-term heavy drinking can lead to alcoholic liver disease, which is one of the important causes of liver cancer. Alcohol can directly damage liver cells and induce cirrhosis. A high-fat, high-calorie diet increases the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. To prevent liver cancer, you should limit your alcohol intake to no more than 20 grams per day, maintain a light diet, and eat a moderate amount of fruits and vegetables.

4. Cirrhosis and other underlying liver diseases

Cirrhosis is a high-risk condition for the development of primary liver cancer. About 80%-90% of liver cancer patients have a history of cirrhosis. Whether cirrhosis is caused by viral infection, alcohol abuse or physical problems, it will accelerate the process of cell fibrosis and eventually lead to cancer. For patients with cirrhosis, it is recommended to undergo imaging examinations such as B-ultrasound, CT or MRI to exclude potential early lesions of liver cancer.

5. Aflatoxin and environmental pollution

Long-term consumption of moldy foods contaminated with aflatoxin (such as peanuts, corn, etc.) will significantly increase the incidence of liver cancer. This toxin can directly induce DNA mutations in liver cells. Long-term exposure to industrial pollutants or environments containing toxic substances can also cause liver damage. It is recommended to avoid eating moldy foods, pay attention to food storage, and choose organic foods.

The occurrence of primary liver cancer is related to multiple factors. Developing a healthy lifestyle, avoiding alcoholism and unclean diet, getting vaccinated, regular physical examinations, and actively treating underlying liver disease after it is discovered are effective means to prevent liver cancer. If there is a family history or high-risk factors, special attention should be paid to monitoring and protection to stay away from the threat of liver cancer.