Treating liver cancer

Liver cancer rates have more than tripled in the U.S. since 1980 and continue to rise. The most common form of primary liver cancer (cancer that starts in the liver) is hepatocellular carcinoma. This type of cancer often develops in people with chronic liver diseases such as hepatitis.

Most people don’t have symptoms in the early stages of primary liver cancer, but when symptoms do appear, they may include:

• Yellowing of the eyes and skin

• Unexpected weight loss

• Upper abdominal pain

• White, chalky stools

Promising treatments include targeted therapy and immunotherapy. Eating a balanced diet of fruits and vegetables, limiting alcohol consumption and getting vaccinated against hepatitis B can reduce your risk of liver cancer.

— MAYO CLINIC NEWS NETWORK