Every year, the healthcare community designates certain days, weeks, and months to highlight particular diseases or conditions to raise public awareness. The goal is primarily education. Awareness campaigns alert people to early symptoms so that they can detect whether they may have a particular disease. They also encourage people to donate toward research for a cure or provide assistance in some other way for those suffering from the affliction.
As North Idaho’s premier cancer care center, Beacon Clinic pays special attention to cancer awareness, and every October is Liver Cancer Awareness Month. Liver cancer is the most common type of cancer in adults in the US, and it is among the top ten causes of death across all demographic groups. This month serves as a vital opportunity to educate the community about steps you can take to prevent and detect liver cancer or how you can educate, advocate, and provide resources to those affected by liver cancer.
Understanding Liver Cancer
Liver cancer, particularly hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide. Unfortunately, this type of cancer frequently goes undetected. As a result, when it is detected, it is often at an advanced stage, making it one of the deadliest forms of cancer. The liver’s ability to regenerate and compensate for damage means that symptoms often do not appear until the cancer has progressed significantly. This late detection underscores the importance of regular screenings, especially for individuals at high risk.
Risk Factors and Prevention
Several factors may increase the risk of developing liver cancer. These include:
- Chronic hepatitis B or C infections
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Chronic liver conditions
- Fatty liver disease
- Exposure to aflatoxins (toxins from certain molds that can contaminate food)
- Being obese
- Having type 2 diabetes
- Smoking
Addressing Risk Factors Head-on
As you might have observed, the risk factors listed above are not hereditary, although researchers have not ruled out genetic factors contributing to liver cancer. The choices you make can increase or decrease your risk of developing liver cancer; however, just because you do not have any of these risks does not mean you can assume you will not get it. Some things you can do to minimize your risk are:
- Vaccination and Treatment: Get vaccinated against hepatitis B and treat hepatitis C early.
- Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Limit how much alcohol you drink, maintain a healthy weight, and avoid smoking.
- Regular Screenings: People with chronic liver conditions or other risk factors should undergo regular liver function tests and imaging studies.
The Importance of Early Detection
Early detection through routine screenings is often the most critical factor in obtaining effective treatment and a better outcome. When diagnosed in its initial stages, liver cancer can sometimes be treated with surgery, liver transplantation, or other localized therapies. If it has not been caught before the cancer has spread, treatment options are limited, and survival rates are considerably lower.
Accordingly, it is hard to over-emphasize the importance of routine check-ups and screenings. For high-risk individuals, regular monitoring can mean the difference between life and premature death. If you have concerns based on past medical history, ask your primary care doctor about obtaining a comprehensive liver cancer screening.
Comprehensive Care and Support
A diagnosis of liver cancer can feel overwhelming, but comprehensive care and support can make a significant difference in a patient’s journey. Beacon Clinic is committed to providing holistic cancer care that addresses not just the physical impacts caused by cancer but also the emotional, psychological, and social challenges that come with diagnosis and treatment. Liver cancer patients and their families often face significant stress and uncertainty, and our support services, including counseling, support groups, and patient education programs, are designed to help them navigate these challenges.
Beacon’s multidisciplinary medical team includes oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists who work with supportive care specialists to create personalized treatment plans. We also offer access to clinical trials, advanced therapies, and innovative treatments that can give patients the most up-to-date options.
Liver Cancer Awareness Month is an opportunity for everyone to contribute to the fight against liver cancer. Whether through spreading awareness, participating in fundraising events, or simply encouraging loved ones to get screened, every action counts. If you or someone close to you has been diagnosed with liver cancer, we encourage and invite you to contact Beacon Clinic today to find the support and assistance you need to navigate your cancer journey.
