0
0
New Delhi, April 24 – Liver cancer, specifically Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC), is rapidly escalating into a significant public health challenge across India, according to medical experts. A notable shift is underway, with lifestyle-related factors increasingly overtaking traditional viral hepatitis causes as the primary drivers of new diagnoses.
Dr. Amar Mukund, Professor and Head of Interventional Radiology at the Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, highlighted this changing landscape. “While hepatitis B and C were historically the main culprits behind liver cancer, we are now seeing a surge linked to lifestyle issues,” he stated. “Excessive alcohol consumption, unhealthy dietary patterns, and resulting conditions like cirrhosis are significant contributors to the rise in HCC cases.”
This observation was echoed by Dr. Manas Saha, an Interventional Radiologist at Apollo Hospitals. He noted that improvements in hepatitis control and vaccination programs have shifted the focus. “Alcohol-related liver disease and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are now leading causes,” Dr. Saha explained, adding that increased life expectancy also means more cases are being diagnosed among the elderly population.
Despite the rising numbers, advancements in medical treatments offer new hope. Dr. Mukund described Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE) as a revolutionary approach. “TACE allows us to target the tumour directly with chemotherapy while simultaneously cutting off its blood supply,” he said. He also pointed to Balloon-occluded TACE (B-TACE) as an even more precise evolution of the technique, enabling safer and more effective drug delivery.
Dr. Saha emphasized the success of combining treatments. “Pairing TACE with other minimally invasive techniques, such as tumour ablation, has shown significantly better outcomes, particularly for patients with mid-sized tumours,” he reported. “This combination therapy is proving to be a game-changer, extending patient survival and enhancing their quality of life.”
While innovative treatments are crucial, both specialists stressed the vital role of prevention through lifestyle adjustments. “Maintaining a balanced diet, significantly reducing alcohol intake, engaging in regular exercise, and adhering to safe practices to prevent infections are fundamental steps in preventing liver cancer,” advised Dr. Saha.
With projections suggesting liver cancer could soon become the second most common cancer in India, experts are issuing a strong call for increased public awareness and the implementation of early screening programs, particularly for individuals in high-risk categories. The combination of potent preventative strategies and advanced therapeutic options marks a hopeful new phase in the fight against this growing health threat.
Disclaimer: This news article is based on information provided by medical experts and is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice. Readers should consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to their health or treatment.
