Many people still assume liver cancer is primarily caused by alcohol consumption. While heavy drinking is certainly a major factor, chronic hepatitis B and C infections actually account for more than 70% of all liver cancer cases. Alcohol-related liver cancer makes up roughly 15% to 16%, while metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease—triggered by high-fat and high-carbohydrate diets—accounts for about 12%. Because alcohol is far from the only cause, nearly 4,000 women develop liver cancer every year despite drinking significantly less than men.
Viral Infections and Lifestyle Factors Drive Female Diagnosis Rates
According to national cancer statistics, 14,707 new cases of liver cancer were diagnosed in 2023, making it the seventh most common cancer overall. Male patients accounted for 10,875 cases, while female patients made up 3,832 cases. By age group, patients in their 60s represented 30.7% of all cases, followed by those in their 70s at 25.1% and those aged 80 and older at 18.8%. The surprisingly high number of cases among women reflects the long-term impact of chronic hepatitis B and C, as well as the rising prevalence of metabolic fatty liver disease.
Unvaccinated Population and High Mortality in Working Age
Among middle-aged and older adults, childhood hepatitis B vaccination was not routine, leaving a significant portion of the population without protective antibodies. As a result, hepatitis B remains the leading cause of liver cancer, accounting for 59.7% of cases. Hepatitis C—for which no vaccine exists—causes about 10%, alcohol accounts for 15.8%, and metabolic fatty liver disease contributes 11.8%. Liver cancer carries a notably high mortality rate, ranking as the leading cause of cancer deaths among individuals in their 50s.
A Silent Disease Often Detected in Advanced Stages
The liver typically shows no symptoms even when severely damaged, and liver cancer is no exception. Warning signs such as pain or a lump in the upper right abdomen usually indicate that the cancer is already advanced. Other non-specific symptoms include abdominal bloating, unexplained weight loss, severe fatigue, and indigestion. In patients with cirrhosis, jaundice and worsening ascites (fluid accumulation in the abdomen) may also occur. Because symptoms are absent during early stages, liver cancer is frequently discovered only after it has metastasized, leaving patients ineligible for surgery.
Bi-Annual Screening, Vaccination, and Dietary Management
High-risk individuals—including those with hepatitis B or C, cirrhosis, metabolic fatty liver disease, or a history of heavy alcohol use—should undergo screening every six months even if they feel healthy. Screening typically involves an abdominal ultrasound paired with an alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) blood test.
Individuals without hepatitis B antibodies should get vaccinated as soon as possible. To prevent and manage metabolic fatty liver disease, health experts recommend cutting back on high-calorie foods and refined carbohydrates—such as white rice, bread, and noodles—while maintaining a regular exercise routine. Research demonstrates that losing as little as 5% of body weight can noticeably improve liver function and health markers.
