Liver cancer can be difficult to detect early since it often doesn’t manifest in defined symptoms in its initial stages. Even when some symptoms surface, those can be quite minor and easily mistaken for other conditions, while the tumour can become quite large by the time more telltale signs can be felt physically. Hence, high-risk individuals should undergo periodic screenings like ultrasound and blood tests as per the doctor’s advice.

Early detection is difficult because of:

No early-stage symptoms: Most people with early-stage liver cancer show no symptoms.
Physical location: The liver is protected by the ribcage and it is difficult for the doctor to feel a small tumour during a physical examination.
Nebulous symptoms: Even if some symptoms appear, those may be very vague and often attributed to other illnesses.

Some probable early-stage symptoms

Unintended weight loss
Pain in the right side of the upper abdomen or around the right shoulder blade
Loss of appetite
Swelling or bloating in the abdomen
Feeling full after a small meal
Hard lump below the ribcage on the right side
Fatigue or weakness
Nausea or vomiting
Jaundice or yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes
Itchy skin
Pale stools
Dark urine
Swollen veins on the abdomen
Becoming sicker with hepatitis or cirrhosis

Appreciating early detection of liver cancer

Crucial for better outcomes: Early detection of cancer is vital for improved treatment outcomes. Identifying the disease early can substantially increase survival rates.
Regular screenings: Routine screenings are crucial for high-risk individuals, especially Hepatitis B and C patients, who have a higher probability of developing liver cancer.
Blood tests and imaging: Blood tests measuring alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels can be a critical tool for monitoring liver health. Elevated AFP count can raise a red flag. Ultrasounds and CT scans also help spot tumours before symptoms surface.
Proactive management: Staying vigilant and active management can help fight this disease more effectively.

What can you do about it?

Be aware of your risk factors: Chronic hepatitis B or C infection is the most common risk factor. These infections can lead to cirrhosis and then to liver cancer. Other risk factors include alcohol abuse, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and tobacco use.
Follow screening advice: The doctor can recommend regular screenings for high-risk individuals, including alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) blood test to measure the level of a tumour-marker protein and ultrasound imaging.
Heed your symptoms: Don’t ignore any concerning symptom, even if it seems mild. See a doctor.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Protect your liver by getting vaccinated for hepatitis B, watch your alcohol intake, and take steps to prevent other chronic liver diseases.

Diagnosis of liver cancer

Blood tests: Blood tests will show up liver function issues.
Imaging tests: The doctor might advise imaging tests like ultrasound, CT, or MRI.
Tissue testing: A tiny portion of liver tissue can be removed for lab testing to make a definitive diagnosis of liver cancer.