Although liver cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in the world, it is rather uncommon in the United States. However, that is starting to change. The cancer’s rate is increasing, which is why we need to know what it is and how we can help prevent it.

Liver cancer occurs when liver cells develop changes (mutations) in their DNA — the material that provides instructions for every chemical process in your body. DNA mutations cause changes in these instructions. One result is that cells may begin to grow out of control and eventually form a tumor — a mass of cancerous cells.

One of the most discouraging parts about this type of cancer is that most people don't have signs and symptoms in the early stages. When signs and symptoms do appear, they may include:
• Loss of appetite
• Upper abdominal pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• General weakness and fatigue
• Abdominal swelling
• Yellow discoloration of your skin and the whites of your eyes (jaundice)
• White, chalky stools

Once diagnosed by a physician, the cancer must be treated. As with most all diseases, treatment will vary depending on extent (stage) as well as the person’s age. The goal of treatment is to eliminate the cancer completely. When that isn't possible, the focus may be on preventing the tumor from growing or spreading. In some cases, only comfort-care is appropriate. In this situation, the goal of treatment is not to remove or slow the disease but to help relieve symptoms, making you as comfortable as possible.

The following tips can help prevent liver cancer:

1. Do not use tobacco products – Avoiding tobacco (or deciding to stop using it) is an important part of cancer prevention. If you need help quitting tobacco, ask your doctor about stop-smoking products and other strategies for quitting.
2. Drink in moderation – For women, this means no more than one drink per day. For men, this means no more than two drinks per day.
3. Reduce your risk of Hepatitis B – A vaccine exists and can be given to almost anyone. This includes infants, older adults and those with compromised immune systems.
4. Reduce your risk of Hepatitis C – While no vaccine exists for Hepatitis C, you can help prevent it by practicing safe sex and not using contaminated needles.

Although these prevention tips help, they don’t guarantee immunity to liver cancer. People are suffering from this type of cancer and need help to pay for their lifesaving medications. To make a positive difference in their lives, click here to donate to Chronic Disease Fund.

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/liver-cancer/DS00399