Liver cancer, as the American Liver Foundation (ALF) defines, as the growth and spread of unhealthy cells in the liver. Approximately 21,000 Americans are diagnosed with liver cancer each year, and it occurs twice as much in men than in women. In some cases the cause remains known, however in most cases, there are risk factors certain identifiable risk factors.
Gender
Men are more likely to develop liver cancer than women, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS). The site states it may result due to behaviors such as smoking and drinking, both of which are risk factors.
Certain Liver Diseases
According to the ACS, the most common risk factors for liver cancer include the hepatitis B and hepatitis C infections. Hepatitis C remains the most common cause of liver cancer in the United States, while hepatitis B tends to occur more commonly in other countries. While hepatitis A is another strain of this infection, it does not increase the risk of liver cancer.
Cirrhosis
Cirrhosis damages the liver, replacing it with scar tissue, often leading to liver cancer as both the Mayo Clinic and ACS explains. The most common causes of this liver disease include hepatitis B and C, along with alcohol abuse. Hemachromatosis, another disease, results in too much iron in the liver and can cause liver cancer as well.
Consuming Excessive Amounts of Alcohol
Consuming excessive amounts of alcohol--meaning more than a moderate amount--especially over a long period of time, can result in irreversible liver damage. This can lead to diseases like cirrhosis, which often leads to liver cancer. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) explains no specific definition for moderate drinking exists, however the Dietary Guidelines for Americans defines it as no more than one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.
