LIVER RISK FACTORS part 1

Risk factors:In the US and other western countries, alcoholrelated cirrhosis, and possibly nonalcoholic fatty liver disease associated with obesity, account for the majority of liver cancer cases. Chronic infections with hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) are associated with less than half of liver cancer cases in the US, although they are the major risk factors for the disease worldwide. In the US, rates of HCC are higher in immigrants from areas where HBV is endemic, such as China, Southeast Asia, and sub-Saharan Africa. A vaccine that protects against HBV has been available since 1982. The HBV vaccination is recommended for all infants at birth; for all children under 18 years of age who were not vaccinated at birth; for adults in highrisk groups (e.g., health care workers and those younger than 60 years who have been diagnosed with diabetes). It is also recommended that all pregnant women be tested for HBV.NEXT
source: American Cancer Society. Cancer Facts & Figures 2013. Atlanta: American Cancer Society; 2013.