Liver cancer is the fifth most common cancer in the world. This type of cancer occurs when there is an uncontrolled growth and proliferation of abnormal liver cells. These cells grow uncontrollably and develop into cancerous tumors. For the tumor to progress and grow, it requires the development of new blood vessels (angiogenesis) to maintain an adequate supply of oxygen and nutrients.
Cancer cells have the ability to promote the growth of new blood vessels that penetrate the tumor, ensuring this supply. Additionally, with the help of these new blood vessels, the tumor can spread to other organs and form metastases.
Among the risk factors for the development of liver cancer are viral infections (hepatitis B and C, which can cause liver cirrhosis), alcoholism, fatty liver, and certain toxins. Advanced liver cancer typically occurs more frequently in patients in their fifties and sixties and is more common in men than in women.
So, what can be done?
In a healthy population, it is important to prevent conditions that pose a risk for the development of liver tumors (such as vaccination against hepatitis B and managing risk factors in patients with fatty liver).
In populations at higher risk, regular monitoring with abdominal ultrasound and alpha-fetoprotein levels is accepted.
In some benign liver tumors, hormone levels are important, so sometimes it is necessary to discontinue the use of contraceptive pills to prevent pregnancy. Treatment and follow-up should be discussed before getting pregnant.
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