Who should be screened for liver cancer?

People at high risk for liver cancer, including those over the age of 40 with cirrhosis or chronic liver disease caused by hepatitis B or C, should undergo screening every 6 months.

Liver ultrasound, how is it done?

An ultrasound works by using high-frequency sound waves to create images of the inside of the body. Take a deep breath and hold it for this test!

What is the serum alpha-fetoprotein test?

Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a protein that is elevated when the liver is damaged and is rarely seen in normal adults, so if AFP levels are above a certain level, liver cancer can be suspected. Routine AFP testing is recommended for people with chronic liver disease, especially those with hepatitis B. AFP testing is done through a blood test.

What are the symptoms of early liver cancer?

Early symptoms of liver cancer include lethargy, fatigue, loss of appetite, and weight loss. However, because these are symptoms that many people experience on a daily basis, there are no clear-cut signs that liver cancer is present, so it's important to get regular screenings to increase the chances of early detection. A 2015 National Cancer Center report found that patients who were regularly screened for liver cancer had a higher chance of early detection, and those who had at least two screenings had a lower risk of death than those who did not.

Liver cancer screening, why are there two tests?

According to the National Cancer Center, people age 40 and older with hepatitis B or C virus, or those diagnosed with cirrhosis, should have a liver ultrasound and a blood test for serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) every 6 months. Conducting both tests improves the accuracy of screening.

What is the connection between hepatitis and liver cancer?

Hepatitis is an inflammatory disease of the liver. When this inflammation becomes chronic, it can cause liver cells to break down, making the liver more susceptible to cancerous changes. Hepatitis B and C viruses multiply in the liver and can lead to chronic hepatitis. If you develop chronic hepatitis, you may also develop cirrhosis, a condition in which the liver becomes scarred and smaller. Cirrhosis has the potential to develop into cancer. About 70% of liver cancers in Korea are caused by the hepatitis B virus and 10% by the hepatitis C virus.

Should I be screened for liver cancer even if I have no symptoms?

The inflammation caused by hepatitis is often asymptomatic. Because the liver doesn't have nerves that feel pain, you can develop chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis, or liver cancer without symptoms. If you have hepatitis, it's important to follow up with regular checkups regardless of symptoms.

What should I keep in mind when getting screened for liver cancer?

If you are scheduled for an ultrasound of your liver, you should fast for at least 8 hours. Eating makes it difficult for the test to be accurate due to bowel movements.