Liver Cancer
Liver Cancer - Overview
Mutations in the liver can be caused by chronic inflammation due to viruses (Hepatitis B and C), toxins (alcohol, alfa-toxins) and metabolic injuries (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), steatohepatitis (NASH)).
​Primary liver cancer or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) originates in the liver. HCC is the 4th most common cancer among men in Singapore, and it more commonly occurs in those aged above 50 years of age. Liver cancer is also mainly an Asian disease, and is prevalent in South-East Asia, China, Japan and Korea.
Liver Cancer - Symptoms
As the cancer advances, some symptoms may show. These include:
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Unexplained and unintentional weight loss
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General weakness and lethargy
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Loss of appetite
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Feeling very full after a small meal
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Nausea or vomiting
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Fever
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Abdominal swelling or a bloated abdomen
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A mass felt under the ribs on the right side because of an enlarged liver
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An enlarged spleen
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Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
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Enlarged veins on the belly that become visible through the skin
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Dark coloured urine
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Liver Cancer -
Health Screenings
Screening is advised for high-risk individuals with liver cirrhosis or chronic hepatitis B infection. Regular screening may involve blood tests for alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and liver function assessments every 3 months, as well as ultrasound scans of the liver every 6 months.