The liver filters the blood that circulates throughout the body, and it is much than likely to come into contact with or be affected by malignant cells in the bloodstream. These cells can take up residence in the liver and begin to multiply. Cancer that starts elsewhere in the body frequently spreads to the liver. The liver has the ability to regenerate, which leads to the growth of cancer cells in the case of cancer.
The symptoms of liver cancer are frequently misdiagnosed until the disease has progressed to an advanced stage. Abdominal pain or swelling, a decrease of appetite, unexpected weight loss, an early sense of fullness during meals, or jaundice are all symptoms to look out for. Chronic liver disease patients may notice a dramatic deterioration in their overall health. Elevated calcium levels in the blood, low blood sugar, and other symptoms of liver malfunction may be shown by laboratory tests.
According to Healthline, the following 4 things increase your risk of developing liver cancer.
1. Aflatoxins.
Peanuts, wheat, soybeans, ground nuts, corn, and rice are infected with a fungus that produces cancer-causing compounds. If stored in a wet, warm environment, this fungus can thrive. Although this can happen almost anywhere on the earth, tropical and warm climates are more likely to experience it. In affluent countries like the United States and Europe, levels of aflatoxin are measured.
The risk of liver cancer increases with long-term exposure to these substances.
2. Viral infection such as Hepatitis B & C.
It is critical to adopt hygienic measures such as using sterile syringes (in the case of injecting drug users) or using condoms during intimacy to avoid becoming infected with viral hepatitis (hepatitis B and C). In addition, there is a vaccine for the hepatitis B virus that prevents the cancer from developing.
3. Excessive consumption of alcohol.
Alcohol consumption is a primary cause of cirrhosis, which is connected to liver cancer and might be one of the leading causes of liver cancer.
4. Being obese and overweight.
Obesity can generate fat deposits in the liver, which can cause scarring or other issues, increasing the risk of liver cancer.
