Love Your Liver! Know How To Reduce The Risk of Liver Cancer
Located just below the right lung is the largest and most complex organ – the liver. It is known to perform over 500 different functions such as synthesis of proteins, blood glucose regulation, secretion of bile juice, breakdown of toxins and more. Even if doctors remove 80% of the liver from your body, the organ has the capability to regenerate itself.
The best surgeons of Dubai-based Al Zahra Hospital have suggested below how to reduce your risk of developing liver cancer. Since they have years of experience in surgical oncology subspecialties and conducting minimally invasive surgery, they know what it takes to maintain a healthy liver.
There are two types of liver cancer:
- Primary Liver Cancer – Primary liver cancer develops in the liver. Hepatocellular Carcinoma is the most common type of liver cancer across the globe.
- Secondary Liver Cancer – Cancer of other organs such as colorectal cancer, pancreatic cancer, prostate cancer may impact liver. They are termed as secondary liver cancer.
Liver cancer can be asymptomatic till the tumor causes blockage to the major blood vessels or bile duct. Some of the known symptoms of liver cancer include jaundice, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, itching, fever, vomiting and nausea. To reduce the risk of liver cancer, taking care of the liver is the primary task. Below are enlisted simple tips to protect and improve liver health to reduce the risk of liver cancer:
Vaccination for Hepatitis – Chronic Hepatitis infection is the leading cause of liver cancer globally. People who are infected with HBV and HCV viruses are at a higher risk of developing liver cirrhosis and liver cancer. There are available highly effective vaccine for Hepatitis B but for Hepatitis C, currently, no vaccine is available. Screening can help prevent liver cancer along with other hazardous health complications. Vaccination against hepatitis is one of the simplest steps to avoid viral induced liver inflammation and carcinogenesis.
Reduce Alcohol Intake – Ethanol forms a major part of all alcoholic beverages. Acetaldehyde and free radicals are byproducts of ethanol metabolism. Excess of alcohol consumption can result in an increase of free radicals and acetaldehyde. This will eventually result in an aberrant cellular function. Chronic alcohol consumption is the leading cause of liver cirrhosis and subsequent increase in the risk of HCC. Stop drinking alcohol to prevent alcohol related liver disease. There is no “safe” limit when it comes to alcohol consumption for preventing cancer. It’s better you quit alcohol if you have liver problem or history of liver disease.
Love Your Liver For Longer Life
Indeed, the liver is a multitasking organ. Having a healthy liver maintains overall good health and longevity. Take care of liver health, the overall liver function can be improved. Follow the diet rich in antioxidants and anti inflammatory substances. Avoid alcohol and smoking.
If you are 50 or above, get yourself screened for liver cancer by Dr. Sadir Alrawi – the best surgeon in Dubai and the entire MENA region. At Cancer Care Specialities, we use the latest technology and information management protocols to conduct diagnosis and treatment of liver cancer.
