A person may not be able to completely prevent liver cancer. However, they can take steps to help reduce their risk of developing it.
Liver cancer develops in the cells of a person’s liver. The
At first, a person may not experience symptoms, but as liver cancer progresses, a person may experience symptoms such as nausea, swelling in the abdomen, and jaundice.
A person can take steps to help limit their risk of liver cancer. This article explores several ways a person may reduce their risk of developing liver cancer. It also discusses risk factors for liver cancer and when to contact a doctor.
A note about sex and gender
Sex and gender exist on spectrums. This article will use the terms “male,” “female,” or both to refer to sex assigned at birth. Click here to learn more.
Hepatitis B and hepatitis C infections are
In addition, a person can get themselves or their child vaccinated against hepatitis B. This may help reduce their risk of infection and liver cancer.
Other ways a person may
- using barrier methods during sexual activity
- not sharing needles, syringes, and medical equipment
- not sharing items such as razors and toothbrushes
A person
Some foods that can become contaminated by aflatoxin include:
However, the American Cancer Society notes that many middle- to high-income countries
Certain conditions
Some infections and conditions that can
- hemochromatosis
- cirrhosis
- nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
- hepatitis B and C
- diabetes
People living with conditions that may affect the liver should speak with a healthcare professional for further information.
A person may help reduce their risk of developing liver cancer by making a few lifestyle modifications.
People may manage their weight by following a healthy diet and exercising regularly. These lifestyle changes may help people with obesity and excess weight reduce their risk of liver cancer. People with obesity are
A person can also consider reducing the amount of alcohol they consume, as drinking alcohol can lead to cirrhosis. Similarly, people who smoke may consider quitting, as smoking can cause a number of cancers, including liver cancer.
People may wish to speak with a doctor for further advice about how to manage their weight, reduce their alcohol intake, and quit smoking.
There are risk factors associated with liver cancer that are outside of a person’s control. For example, about
Furthermore, in the United States, people of certain races and ethnicities
Cancer resources
To discover more evidence-based information and resources for cancer, visit our dedicated hub.
A person should consider speaking with a doctor if they develop unusual symptoms. Some potential signs of liver cancer
- jaundice
- a hard lump on the right side of the torso, just below the rib cage
- discomfort in the upper right abdomen
- swelling in the abdomen
- bleeding or bruising easily
- vomiting or nausea
- pain in the back or near the right shoulder blade
- unexplained weight loss
- loss of appetite
- fatigue
These symptoms are not specific to liver cancer — several conditions may also cause them. A doctor can help a person figure out the underlying cause of their symptoms.
A person may also want to speak with a healthcare professional about their risk factors for liver cancer. A doctor may be able to provide additional steps to help a person reduce their chances of developing liver cancer.
A person can take steps to reduce their risk of liver cancer. These include preventing and treating other conditions such as hepatitis, diabetes, and cirrhosis and making lifestyle modifications such as reducing alcohol consumption.
People should consider talking with a doctor if they are concerned they are at risk of developing liver cancer. A healthcare professional may be able to provide additional tips and a treatment plan to help a person reduce their risk of developing liver cancer.