Liver cancer is skyrocketing, making it one of the fastest-growing cancers worldwide, with India at the forefront of this unsettling trend. Despite advancements in cancer treatment, the escalating number of liver cancer cases reveals a stark lack of awareness and preventive measures.

The majority of liver cancer patients, especially those diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), suffer from pre-existing chronic liver diseases. Tragically, many remain oblivious to their conditions until it's too late, underscoring the critical need for early detection and robust prevention strategies.

What is Driving This Surge?

To better understand this alarming increase, Firstpost consulted Dr. Manjeet Kumar Goyal, a Consultant in Gastroenterology at CK Birla Hospital in Gurugram. Here are the key factors contributing to the rise of liver cancer cases in India:

1. **Chronic Hepatitis Infections:** Persistent infections from hepatitis B and C dramatically heighten the risk of liver cancer.

2. **Heavy Alcohol Consumption:** Chronic alcohol abuse leads to cirrhosis, a primary precursor to cancer.

3. **Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD):** The obesity epidemic and unhealthy living habits are making NAFLD more common.

4. **Delayed Diagnosis:** Early warning signs like fatigue and mild abdominal pain often go unnoticed until significant damage has been done.

5. **Lack of Screening and Vaccination:** Alarmingly few individuals get tested for hepatitis or receive appropriate vaccinations.

6. **Unhealthy Lifestyles:** Poor dietary choices, inactivity, and metabolic disorders add to the crisis.

What’s most troubling is that many of these risk factors are preventable. Increased awareness and healthier lifestyle choices could significantly reduce the number of liver cancer cases.

How to Protect Yourself from Liver Cancer?

Here are essential steps everyone can take to minimize their risk:

- **Get Hepatitis B Vaccinated:** This quick intervention can effectively safeguard against liver disease.

- **Regular Screenings:** Especially critical if you have a family history of liver issues or other risk factors.

- **Moderate Alcohol Consumption:** Avoid excessive drinking; stick to recommended limits or eliminate it entirely.

- **Maintain a Healthy Diet and Weight:** This can help prevent NAFLD.

- **Stay Active:** Regular exercise is beneficial for liver health.

- **Practice Safe Hygiene and Sexual Health:** This helps prevent the transmission of hepatitis B and C.

- **Manage Health Conditions:** Keep diabetes, cholesterol, and blood pressure under control to alleviate stress on the liver.

By taking these proactive measures and promoting greater awareness, we can combat the growing threat of liver cancer in India.