On World Cancer Day, Liver Cancer UK, part of the British Liver Trust, is calling for greater awareness of liver cancer risk factors and the urgent need for early detection.
Deaths from liver cancer in the UK have nearly doubled over the past two decades, with Cancer Research UK estimating that the disease has claimed over 81,000 lives during this period. Projections suggest that liver cancer deaths will rise by a further 10% by 2040, potentially ranking as the sixth most common cause of cancer-related deaths.
“These figures highlight the urgent need to address the rising toll of liver cancer deaths,” Pamela Healy emphasises. “Liver cancer is often preventable, with the majority of cases linked to underlying liver conditions. Improving liver health and strengthening surveillance for those with liver disease are critical steps in reducing the number of lives lost to liver cancer. It is a devastating diagnosis with sadly only 13% of people surviving for five years.”
The most significant risk factor for liver cancer is liver disease. Early identification of liver disease allows for the possibility of reversing liver damage through lifestyle modifications, leading to a substantial reduction in the risk of liver cancer.
Liver Cancer UK, part of the British Liver Trust, is committed to raising awareness about the importance of liver health, promoting early detection, and advocating for improved access to treatment and care for those affected. In particular, in order to facilitate early diagnosis and improve outcomes, the charity is calling for the establishment of a new clear treatment pathway and for every patient diagnosed to be referred to a specialist centre and to have their case discussed promptly by a multidisciplinary team to reduce variation in care.
Individuals are encouraged to take the free Liver Cancer Risk Checker, available at livercanceruk.org/liver-cancer-risk-checker. This simple tool helps individuals identify key risk factors and provides guidance on what to do next if they may be at risk.
If you or a loved one is affected by liver cancer, there are a wealth of information and support available to you at livercanceruk.org/support-for-you.