Liver Cancer: 5 things that put you at risk of becoming a victim

Liver cancer occurs when cells in the liver grow out of control and create a tumor. The various types of liver cancer include hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), cholangiocarcinoma, and angiosarcoma.

HCC is responsible for 75 percent of all adult liver malignancies. Several factors can increase your chance of liver cancer, while the exact cause is unknown. Knowing your risk factors might thus assist you in making educated lifestyle adjustments and taking timely preventive or corrective measures.

Here are 5 things that could lead to liver cancer:

1. Chronic Viral Hepatitis

Infection with the hepatitis B and C viruses can induce liver cirrhosis, which can progress to liver cancer.

2. Cirrhosis

Cirrhosis is a disease in which healthy liver cells die and are replaced by scar tissue, increasing the risk of liver cancer.

3. Excessive alcohol or tobacco use

Heavy alcohol intake or smoking can lead to cirrhosis and liver cancer.

4. Type 2 diabetes

Patients with type 2 diabetes who are obese or have other risk factors such as chronic viral hepatitis or heavy alcohol intake are more likely to develop liver cancer.

5. Aflatoxins

A fungus produces these toxins, which can be found in rice, soybeans, corn, groundnuts, peanuts, and wheat. Storing these crops in a warm, wet environment might encourage fungal development, which can increase your risk of liver cancer if consumed.