Liver cancer can happen because of infections, long-term liver damage, or contact with harmful substances. Some health conditions and habits increase the chance of getting liver cancer:
- Chronic Hepatitis B or C: These infections are the main causes of liver cancer. The viruses harm the liver over many years and can cause scarring called cirrhosis. People can contract or through unprotected sex, sharing needles, or blood transfusions before 1992, when blood started being screened for these viruses.
- Cirrhosis: This is serious liver scarring that stops the liver from working well. It often results from hepatitis infections, heavy alcohol use, or fatty liver disease. Cirrhosis increases the risk of liver cancer.
- Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD): This condition causes fat to build up in the liver. It is common in people who are overweight or have diabetes or high cholesterol. A more serious form, called MASH (metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis), can cause cirrhosis and lead to cancer.
- Alcohol Use: Drinking a lot of alcohol for many years can damage the liver and cause cirrhosis. People with hepatitis who drink alcohol have an even higher risk.
- Inherited Liver Diseases: Some liver problems run in families. Hemochromatosis causes too much iron to build up, and Wilson’s disease causes copper to build up. Both can harm the liver and raise the chance of cancer.
- Smoking: Using tobacco harms many organs, including the liver. Smoking raises the risk of liver cancer, especially if combined with other risks.
- Aflatoxins: These harmful substances are made by mold that can grow on grains and nuts stored improperly. Although rare in the U.S., aflatoxins can contaminate food and increase liver cancer risk.
- Anabolic Steroids: These synthetic male hormones, sometimes used to build muscle, can damage the liver when used for a long time and raise cancer risk.
- Exposure to Chemicals: Drinking water with arsenic or working with vinyl chloride (used in making plastics) can also increase liver cancer risk.
- HIV Infection: People living with HIV have a higher risk of liver cancer, especially if they are also infected with hepatitis B or C. HIV also weakens the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight infections that can lead to liver disease and cancer.
- Type 2 Diabetes: Type 2 diabetes is strongly linked to a higher risk of liver cancer, though researchers are still studying whether it directly causes the disease.
Understanding Cirrhosis and Its Link to Liver Cancer
Cirrhosis is a serious liver condition caused by long-term damage. This damage can come from hepatitis, heavy alcohol use, or other health problems. When the liver is injured, it tries to repair itself. Over time, scar tissue forms, making it harder for the liver to do its job.
Cirrhosis is a leading cause of liver cancer. It develops in about 10% to 20% of people who drink heavily. As cirrhosis progresses, the liver becomes stiff and can no longer filter toxins, store energy, or produce bile effectively. This can lead to symptoms like swelling in the abdomen or legs, yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice), and confusion due to a buildup of toxins in the brain.
Cirrhosis cannot always be reversed, but early treatment and stopping further liver damage—such as quitting alcohol—can slow its progression.
Liver Damage from Type 2 Diabetes and Cancer
Liver cancer is a common and serious condition, and people with type 2 diabetes are at a higher risk. While researchers haven't yet proven that diabetes directly causes liver cancer, there is a strong link between the two. Type 2 diabetes can lead to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), a condition where fat builds up in the liver, potentially causing damage like cirrhosis. This damage increases the risk of developing liver cancer.
People with type 2 diabetes are two to four times more likely to develop liver cancer than those without it. However, by managing blood sugar levels through healthy habits—such as maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, staying active, and limiting sugar and alcohol intake—individuals can protect their liver and lower their cancer risk. It's also important to work with a doctor to monitor blood sugar levels and overall health to prevent liver damage and reduce the risk of cancer.
