All You Need to Know About Liver Cancer Treatment in Delhi!

Liver cancer is one of the less-discussed forms of cancer, and there's no better time to talk about it than during October, as this is the Liver Cancer Awareness Month. Understanding the causes of liver cancer is essential, as some risk factors may be avoidable.

In this article, we will explore important information related to liver cancer and why it’s important to seek specialized care if you are at risk.

Risk Factors for Developing Liver Cancer

Liver cancer falls under the broad category of gastrointestinal cancers. Below are the major risk factors for developing liver cancer:

Gender:

• Men are more likely to develop liver cancer than women. Although the reasons for this disparity are not entirely clear, it might be the male hormones may play a role during puberty and development.

Excessive alcohol consumption:

• Drinking large amounts of alcohol can directly increase your risk of liver cancer.
• Chronic alcohol abuse often leads to cirrhosis, a condition where scar tissue replaces healthy liver tissue, which significantly raises cancer risks.
• Obesity is often related to alcohol use, leading to conditions like fatty liver disease.

Hepatitis B and C infections:

• Both hepatitis B and C are viral infections that can cause cirrhosis and, ultimately, liver cancer. And these conditions are a leading cause of liver cancer worldwide.

Medical conditions:

• Certain diseases increase the risk of liver cancer, including nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, diabetes, and hemochromatosis (excessive iron buildup in the body).
• Individuals with these medical conditions should undergo regular check-ups for potential liver damage or cancer.

Aflatoxin exposure:

• Aflatoxins are toxins produced by molds that grow on improperly stored grains. These carcinogens are a major liver cancer risk factor, particularly in developing countries where food storage methods are not adequate. Crops like maize and peanuts are particularly susceptible to contamination.

Geographical differences:

• Liver cancer in India is more common due to the higher rate of hepatitis infection. The prevalence of hepatitis B and C in this region is higher by factors such as lower vaccination rates and improper sterilization of medical equipment, contributing to the increased occurrence of liver cancer.

Hepatitis and its Connection to Liver Cancer

Hepatitis B is one of the most common risk factors for liver cancer. Let us discuss the hepatitis and liver cancer:

Hepatitis B can be silent:

• Many individuals with hepatitis B do not exhibit symptoms but still suffer from liver damage over time. If you're at high risk, it is essential to get tested and vaccinated.

Chronic Hepatitis B:

• People with chronic hepatitis B need lifelong treatment to prevent liver damage and reduce cancer risk. Early diagnosis and treatment is key, as it may help prevent the development of cirrhosis and liver cancer.

Hepatitis C:

• Unlike hepatitis B, there is no vaccine for hepatitis C. However, lifestyle modifications can reduce your risk. If contracted, immediate treatment is essential to prevent liver damage.

Early Diagnosis and Survival Tips for Liver Cancer

Early diagnosis plays an essential role in the successful treatment of liver cancer. Here are four tips for screening and improving survival rates:

Symptom awareness:

• Liver cancer often does not exhibit any symptoms in its early stages. By the time symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, nausea, weight loss, appetite loss, jaundice, and upper abdominal pain appear, the disease may already be in an advanced stage. This makes regular screening essential for high-risk individuals.

Screening:

• Routine screening for liver cancer is not common due to its rarity. However, individuals who have had hepatitis or cirrhosis should undergo regular screenings, including blood tests and abdominal ultrasounds. Early diagnosis improves treatment results.

Survival rates:

• Liver cancer survival rates are relatively low, making early diagnosis and management essential. The five-year survival rate is around 31% for those diagnosed early but drops to 11% for those diagnosed in later stages. Regular monitoring for those at risk may improve survival rates.

Options for Liver Cancer Treatment in Delhi

Liver cancer treatment in Delhi has helped many with the advancement of gastrointestinal cancer surgery and liver cancer surgery. For patients diagnosed with liver cancer, a multi-disciplinary approach that includes surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation is often required.

Surgery:

• In many cases, liver cancer surgery in Delhi is the best option for treatment, especially if the cancer is detected early. Gastrointestinal cancer surgery specialists in Delhi provide expert care, ensuring that patients receive the most effective treatments possible.

Chemotherapy:

• Depending on the stage of the liver cancer, chemotherapy might be recommended either before or after surgery.

Targeted therapy and immunotherapy:

• Newer forms of treatment, such as targeted therapy and immunotherapy, offer hope for patients with liver cancer, especially when traditional treatments are not sufficient.

Why Choose Dr. Neeraj Goel for Gastrointestinal Cancer Surgery in Delhi?

Liver cancer is a serious condition that requires early diagnosis and proper treatment. If you're experiencing symptoms or fall into one of the high-risk categories, it’s crucial to consult an expert in gastrointestinal cancer treatment in Delhi. Dr. Neeraj Goel is the best GI cancer surgeon in Delhi, offering top-notch care for liver cancer surgery and gastrointestinal cancer surgery. Booking an appointment with Dr. Goel to receive a well-planned treatment and the best possible chance of recovery.