Press Release: Lancet Commission Highlights Preventable Liver Cancer
The Lancet Commission reveals that up to 60% of liver cancer cases could be prevented by addressing modifiable risk factors such as hepatitis B and C, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and alcohol consumption. Researchers predict a 35% increase in liver cancer cases attributed to a severe form of fatty liver, known as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), between now and 2050. If global efforts can reduce liver cancer incidence by 2-5% annually, between 9 to 17 million new cases may be prevented, potentially saving 8 to 15 million lives.
In India, Dr. Sheetal Dhadphale from Sahyadri Hospitals cites a current liver cancer incidence of 2.15 to 2.27 per lakh, with an associated mortality rate of 2.21. Despite declining cases related to Hepatitis B, liver cancers stemming from alcohol and MASH are on the rise. To combat this trend, Dr. Dhadphale emphasizes the need for awareness campaigns and targeted treatments.
Dr. Shiv Kumar Sarin from the Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences warns that over 35% of liver cancer cases involve individuals with obesity and diabetes. The Commission advocates for routine liver screening for high-risk groups, emphasizing the integration of lifestyle counseling into healthcare practices.
Prof. Jian Zhou, Chair of the Lancet Commission, calls for urgent action, highlighting that without intervention, liver cancer cases could nearly double over the next 25 years. Prof. Stephen Lam Chan stresses the need for public health policies targeting obesity and alcohol use, noting the opportunity to reduce liver cancer cases linked to viral hepatitis, obesity, and alcohol consumption.
The Commission urges increased HBV vaccination coverage, universal screening for adults, and strict regulations on alcohol marketing, alongside promoting healthy diets. This comprehensive approach could significantly curb the global liver cancer burden and improve public health.
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