Risk Factors
Although currently there is no known direct cause of liver cancer, there are several risk factors that have been shown to increase a person's chance of developing HCC. These include:
Chronic infection with hepatitis B (HBV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV)
This is one of the most common risk factors for developing HCC. Both HBV and HCV may lead to cirrhosis of the liver, which is another risk factor for HCC.
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Cirrhosis
Cirrhosis occurs when damaged liver cells are replaced with scar tissue. Cirrhosis is often caused by alcohol abuse or chronic infection with hepatitis B and hepatitis C. More than 80% of cases of liver cancer are associated with cirrhosis and about 5% of all patients diagnosed with cirrhosis will develop liver cancer.
There are other risk factors for cirrhosis such as bile duct disorders, autoimmune disease like autoimmune hepatitis, schistosomiasis (bilharzia), hereditary conditions such as hemochromatosis, Wilson's disease, alpha-1-antitrypsin, and even severe reactions to medications.
Age
The risk of developing liver cancer increases with age. Liver cancer is most often diagnosed in people over the age of 60 with the average age being 65.
Gender
Men are twice as likely to develop liver cancer than women, however this increased risk may be related to differences in behavior.
Aflatoxins
Aflatoxins are cancer-causing substances created by particular molds that contaminate peanuts, wheat, ground nuts, corn, and rice. Long-term exposure to these substances may increase the risk for liver cancer, even though the aflatoxin content in foods is monitored and regulated by the FDA.
Diabetes
Patients with diabetes have a slightly increased risk of developing liver cancer.
Obesity
Obesity can increase a person's risk for developing cirrhosis of the liver or fatty liver disease. These diseases can increase a person's risk of liver cancer.
