Dipika Kakar Diagnosed With Stage 2 Liver Cancer: Crucial Signs You Cant Afford To Miss, What Are The Red Flags
Liver cancer, especially hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) — the most common type — typically emerges in livers already compromised. Experts at Johns Hopkins Medicine and Mayo Clinic consistently point to chronic viral hepatitis (Hepatitis B and C) as a primary culprit. These viruses spark ongoing inflammation, scarring (cirrhosis), and eventually, a higher risk of cancerous
changes. But they're not the only risk factors:
* Cirrhosis, no matter the cause: Whether it's from heavy alcohol use, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), or other conditions, cirrhosis creates a breeding ground for cancer. NAFLD, now
more common with rising rates of obesity, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes, is a growing concern.
* Heavy drinking: Too much alcohol directly harms liver cells, leading to inflammation and scarring that can progress to cirrhosis and cancer.
* Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes: These conditions are strongly linked to NAFLD, which can escalate to severe liver disease and, ultimately, cancer.
* Certain inherited liver conditions: Diseases like hemochromatosis can also elevate your risk.
* Exposure to specific toxins: For instance, aflatoxins, a mold byproduct found in improperly stored crops, are known carcinogens.
The tricky part about liver cancer is its sneaky nature; symptoms often don't show up until the disease has advanced. This makes staying vigilant incredibly important. Here are some critical red
flags, highlighted by Mayo Clinic and Johns Hopkins Medicine, that you should never brush aside:
* Unexplained weight loss and poor appetite: Losing a significant amount of weight without trying, along with a lack of hunger, can be a major warning sign.
* Upper abdominal pain or discomfort: A dull ache or discomfort, often in the upper right side of your belly, needs attention.
* Persistent nausea and vomiting: If you're constantly feeling sick to your stomach or throwing up, it's a symptom to address.
* Constant weakness and fatigue: Feeling unusually drained and lacking energy could signal an underlying issue.
* Abdominal swelling (ascites): Fluid buildup in your belly causing noticeable distension is a serious indicator.
* Jaundice: A yellowish tint to your skin and the whites of your eyes points to problems with liver function.
* Changes in stool or urine color: If your stools become pale or chalky, or your urine turns unusually dark, it could indicate a bile duct issue.
* Unrelenting itching: This can occur when bile salts accumulate under the skin.
Liver Cancer in India: The Shifting Landscape
In India, liver cancer presents a significant public health challenge, with its incidence showing an upward trend over the last decade. From 2004 to 2014, the overall hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) incidence rate in India saw an 11% increase, rising from an age-standardized rate of 3.0 to 3.3 per 100,000 persons. While still lower than in some global regions, this rise is a cause for
concern.
Demographically, liver cancer disproportionately affects males, with a male-to-female ratio often cited around 4:1. The age of presentation typically varies, but a significant number of cases are seen between 40 to 70 years, with some studies indicating peaks around 40-55 years and again above 60 years. This bimodal distribution is often linked to the timing of hepatitis B infection
acquisition.
While Hepatitis B remains a dominant cause, the increasing prevalence of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), driven by rising rates of obesity and type 2 diabetes in the Indian population, is swiftly becoming a major contributor to the climbing HCC incidence. This demographic shift highlights the urgent need for public health strategies focusing on lifestyle
interventions to prevent NAFLD.
What Patients Need to Know: Spotting Red Flags and Getting Screened
If you notice any of these persistent symptoms, particularly if you have known risk factors for liver disease, don't wait — reach out to your doctor immediately. Getting evaluated quickly is essential. Your doctor might order blood tests (including liver function tests and AFP, a tumor marker), imaging like ultrasounds, CT scans, or MRIs, and in some cases, a liver biopsy for a definitive
diagnosis. If you have chronic Hepatitis B or C, or cirrhosis, talk to your doctor about regular screening protocols.
The Horizon of Hope: Advances in Liver Cancer Research
While the path to managing liver cancer can be challenging, groundbreaking research is continually offering new hope. Scientists are making strides in several key areas:
* Immunotherapy and Combination Treatments: A major breakthrough has been the integration of immunotherapy drugs with targeted therapies or localized treatments like transarterial chemoembolization (TACE). These combinations are showing significant promise in extending lives and improving outcomes, even in advanced stages of the disease, by harnessing the body's
own immune system to fight cancer.
* Non-Invasive Therapies: Innovative procedures like Histotripsy are emerging, using focused ultrasound waves to destroy tumors without the need for incisions, leading to fewer complications
and faster recovery for eligible patients.
* Smarter Diagnostics: Beyond traditional imaging, new blood tests (some combining multiple markers with demographic data) are being developed to detect liver cancer earlier, even before symptoms appear. The use of liquid biopsies, which analyze cancer cells or DNA fragments in blood, offers a less invasive way to diagnose and monitor the disease. Furthermore, Artificial
Intelligence (AI) is being integrated into imaging to enhance the accuracy and speed of detection.
These advancements represent a dynamic shift in how liver cancer is treated and diagnosed, offering more personalized and effective options for patients.
Boosting Your Liver Health: Practical Advice for Everyone
Beyond early detection, actively protecting your liver is a powerful preventive step. Here's what you can do:
* Go easy on alcohol, or cut it out entirely: This is fundamental to preventing liver damage.
* Maintain a healthy weight: Combat obesity with a balanced diet and regular exercise to prevent and manage NAFLD.
* Eat smart: Load up on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats.
* Get vaccinated: Make sure you're protected against Hepatitis A and B if you're at risk.
* Practice safe habits: Use safe sex practices and avoid shared needles to significantly lower your risk of Hepatitis B and C.
* Be careful with meds and supplements: Always follow dosage instructions and tell your doctor about everything you're taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, as
some can harm your liver.
* Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water helps your liver with its crucial detoxification work.
By understanding what causes liver cancer, recognizing its warning signs, and taking proactive steps for liver health, we can all contribute to reducing its impact and embracing a future with
more effective treatments.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
News18
8 hours ago
- News18
Reducing Risk Of Liver Cancer: A Call To Act On World Hepatitis Day
Last Updated: Let us understand the connection between hepatitis and liver cancer and what we can do to reduce the risk Every year, World Hepatitis Day, observed on July 28, brings global attention to one of the most pressing public health challenges — viral hepatitis, which affects over 350 million people worldwide. Among its many consequences, one of the gravest is liver cancer, particularly hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which often arises silently in the backdrop of chronic hepatitis B or C infections. On this important day, let us understand the connection between hepatitis and liver cancer and what we can do to reduce the risk. Understanding the link Chronic infection with Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is the leading cause of liver cancer globally. These viruses can silently inflame the liver for years, gradually leading to cirrhosis, genetic mutations, and ultimately cancer. According to WHO, up to 80% of liver cancer cases can be attributed to viral hepatitis. Simple blood tests (HBsAg for HBV, Anti-HCV for HCV) can identify carriers. Liver function tests and ultrasound help in early cancer detection. HBV: Long-term use of drugs like tenofovir or entecavir reduces viral replication and progression to cirrhosis or cancer. HCV: Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) offer 95% cure rates, reducing the risk of liver cancer even in patients with advanced fibrosis. Avoid alcohol and toxins Chronic alcohol use and exposure to aflatoxins (from contaminated grains) synergize with hepatitis to worsen liver injury. Limiting or eliminating alcohol, ensuring food safety, and avoiding unnecessary herbal or over-the-counter medications that affect the liver are critical. Control of metabolic risk factors Conditions like diabetes, obesity, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are rising globally and may compound liver damage in viral hepatitis patients. Lifestyle changes — healthy diet, regular exercise, and glucose control — are essential. Regular surveillance in high-risk groups Individuals with chronic HBV or HCV, or with liver cirrhosis, should undergo regular ultrasound and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) testing every 6 months. Early detection of HCC dramatically improves survival. A shared responsibility Preventing liver cancer is not just the responsibility of doctors or patients — it is a collective public health mission. Governments, communities, healthcare systems, and individuals must unite to: Improve awareness about viral hepatitis. Increase access to vaccination and testing. Eliminate the stigma around hepatitis. Expand availability of affordable treatment. Conclusion Liver cancer is largely preventable. On this World Hepatitis Day, let us commit to educate, vaccinate, test, and treat. With informed action today, we can ensure a future where hepatitis-related liver cancer becomes a rarity, not a global burden. Let's act now — for liver, lives, and for a hepatitis-free world. Dr Madhu Sasidharan is Senior Consultant, Department of Gastroenterology, KIMSHEALTH, Thiruvananthapuram. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18's views. view comments First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
NDTV
9 hours ago
- NDTV
Samantha Ruth Prabhu Swears By An Anti-Inflammatory Diet To Stay Fit And In Shape. Know All About This Diet
Call it unrealistic expectations or the norm, celebrities often go the extra mile to stay fit and healthy. Samantha Ruth Prabhu is one of those celebrities who is always busy working out when she is off work. But the actor has recently revealed it is not just exercise that helps her, a healthy diet also plays a pivotal role in her fitness. In a chat with celebrity nutritionist Ryan Fernando, the Kushi actor revealed all about following an anti-inflammatory diet and how she doesn't believe in following cheat meals. Samantha Ruth Prabhu On Following An Anti-Inflammatory Diet During the conversation, Samantha Ruth Prabhu shared that she never gained weight as a teenager, so she could eat anything. However, she follows a "strict diet" now. She explained, "I didn't know that it was not just about the weight, but also about inflammation that could manifest in many other ways. My diet is mostly anti-inflammatory. It is just about finding what doesn't work for you and eliminating it from your diet." Samantha Ruth Prabhu says that she eats the same thing every day and has "no cheat days". What Is An Anti-Inflammatory Diet An anti-inflammatory diet is a way of eating that includes eating whole, unprocessed foods that can help reduce inflammation in the body. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, inflammation can be caused by "exposure to environmental toxins, a lingering virus or chronic stress". Foods such as red meat, processed meat, bread, pasta, deep-fried items, and sugary foods may trigger inflammation. If left unattended, an anti-inflammatory diet can lead to illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, fatty liver disease, and even cancer. An anti-inflammatory diet consists of whole, nutrient-dense foods that contain antioxidants. Here are some of the best anti-inflammatory foods you can eat, according to Healthline. Broccoli Kale Bell peppers Brussels sprouts Cabbage Cauliflower Blueberries Pomegranates Grapes Cherries Spices such as turmeric, fenugreek, and cinnamon Avocado Olives Dark chocolate Fatty fish such as salmon, sardines, etc Nuts Green tea Red wine Samantha Ruth Prabhu also eats a lot of veggies. During the conversation, she shared that she likes adding cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and broccoli in her meals, but she is not a fan of spinach or kale. Apart from this, the 38-year-old actor also includes acai berries, turmeric, ghee, celery, and cold-pressed oils in her meals. Benefits Of An Anti-Inflammatory Diet According to Healthline, following an anti-inflammatory diet can benefit you in more ways than one, which includes: Reducing symptoms of arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and other autoimmune conditions. Helping you keep your weight in check. Alleviating the risk of heart disease, depression, diabetes, and even cancer. Improving your blood sugar, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels. Boosting energy as well. While an anti-inflammatory diet worked for Samantha Ruth Prabhu, it may not work for you. Make sure to check with your doctor once before making any changes to your diet.
&w=3840&q=100)
Business Standard
9 hours ago
- Business Standard
Worried about mercury in vaccines? Here's the science behind 'thimerosal'
Ever heard of a mercury-based compound in your vaccine? It's called 'thimerosal' — a preservative that keeps multi-dose vials free from bacterial or fungal contamination. Introduced in the 1930s, it contains a form of mercury called 'ethylmercury', which is different from 'methylmercury' which is the toxic type found in certain fish and industrial waste. The two are often confused by people, although they behave very differently in the body. While thimerosal was once common in childhood vaccines globally, many countries, including the US, began phasing it out around the early 2000s due to rising public concern over mercury exposure, despite no strong evidence of harm. However, certain India's vaccines, especially multi-dose ones, are believed to contain thimerosal. Why is thimerosal in the news? The debate over thimerosal surfaced after some public figures made controversial claims linking mercury in vaccines to autism. At the first meeting of US Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr's special committee on vaccines, the panel voted to stop recommending flu vaccines that contain thimerosal. Public health experts warn that this action could undermine trust and spread confusion about vaccine safety. Moreover, several studies that once claimed a link between thimerosal and autism have since been retracted or discredited. Does Thimerosal cause autism? According to a large body of international research, there is no credible evidence that thimerosal causes autism. In 2004, the US Institute of Medicine reviewed over 200 scientific studies and found no link between thimerosal in vaccines and autism. Later reviews by the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) and FDA (Food and Drug Administration) also found no evidence that thimerosal causes autism or developmental delays. 'Thimerosal, an ethyl mercury compound, preserves multi-dose vaccines by inhibiting microbial growth after repeated vial entry. Clinically, it reduces contamination risk in mass immunisation. Decades of surveillance and evidence show no link to autism or serious toxicity at approved doses. In fact, autism rates did not decrease after thimerosal was removed from vaccines, which supports that the vaccines do not increase the risk of autism,' said Dr Deepak Ugra, paediatrician at Lilavati Hospital, Mumbai. Is thimerosal still used in Indian vaccines? Many of India's vaccines, particularly those supplied in multi-dose formats, are believed to contain thimerosal. Dr Ugra explained, 'Thimerosal remains in use within India's routine immunisation programme, especially in multi-dose vials of vaccines like DTP and Hepatitis B. It serves as an antimicrobial preservative. While single-dose, thimerosal-free alternatives are available, their broader rollout is constrained by cost, infrastructure, and supply-chain limitations in public health settings. However, in the private sector only single-dose, preservative-free vaccines are used.' Is thimerosal safe for children? Thimerosal breaks down into ethylmercury, which is eliminated from the body quickly and does not accumulate in the body. This sets it apart from methylmercury, which can be toxic in high amounts. 'Parents should not be concerned about mercury in vaccines. Ethyl mercury, one of the metabolites of thimerosal, is excreted quickly and does not have the neurotoxic properties of methylmercury. While mild reactions at the injection site such as redness, swelling, or tenderness, and rarely, contact hypersensitivity may be seen, serious adverse events are extremely rare,' said Dr Ugra. While thimerosal remains a topic of public interest, current scientific evidence does not support claims linking it to autism. For parents in India, the key lies in staying informed through verified medical sources and consulting paediatricians for vaccine safety.
