Study Reveals Over 60% of Liver Cancers Are Preventable

A recent analysis conducted by the Lancet Commission on liver cancer has revealed that more than 60% of liver cancer cases globally are attributable to preventable risk factors. The study, published on July 29, 2025, indicates a concerning rise in obesity-linked liver cancer cases, particularly in regions like the United States, Europe, and Asia. The findings emphasize the urgent need for targeted interventions to mitigate these risks.

The comprehensive study highlights that liver cancer is becoming increasingly prevalent due to factors such as viral hepatitis, excessive alcohol consumption, and obesity. According to the report, cases of liver cancer linked to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) are expected to rise significantly, with projections indicating a 35% increase by 2050. This condition is a severe form of fat accumulation in the liver that can lead to further complications, including liver cancer.

Professor Stephen Chan of the Chinese University of Hong Kong, the lead author of the study, stated, "As three in five cases of liver cancer are linked to preventable risk factors, there is a huge opportunity for countries to target these risk factors, prevent cases of liver cancer, and save lives." The commission anticipates that the prevalence of MASLD in the United States could exceed 55% among adults by 2040, mirroring the obesity epidemic in the country.

The study further forecasts that liver cancer cases associated with alcohol consumption will increase from 19% in 2022 to 21% by 2050. Conversely, cases linked to hepatitis B virus are expected to decline from 39% to 37%, while hepatitis C-related cases are projected to drop from 29% to 26% during the same period.

The analysis underscores the importance of early detection and intervention. Professor Hashem B. El-Serag from Baylor College of Medicine emphasized the need for routine screening for liver damage in high-risk populations, including those with obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular issues. Integrating lifestyle counseling into routine healthcare can also play a crucial role in promoting healthy behaviors.

The report shows alarming trends in liver cancer incidence, predicting a rise in new cases from 870,000 in 2022 to approximately 1.52 million by 2050, primarily due to population growth and aging demographics. The number of deaths from liver cancer is expected to increase from 760,000 in 2022 to 1.37 million by 2050. Currently, liver cancer stands as the sixth most common cancer and the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally.

Notably, over 40% of global liver cancer cases occur in China, largely attributed to high rates of hepatitis B infections. The commission advocates for public health strategies aimed at reducing the incidence of liver cancer by 2-5% annually, which could prevent between 9 to 17 million new cases and save 8 to 15 million lives by 2050.

To address these preventable factors, experts recommend enhancing hepatitis B vaccination coverage and implementing policies that target obesity and alcohol consumption. Professor Valérie Paradis of Beaujon Hospital in France highlighted the need for societal awareness regarding the growing health crisis of liver cancer.

In conjunction with these findings, the Health Service Executive (HSE) in Ireland has announced an expansion of its hepatitis C online testing service, introducing a rapid oral swab self-test to make hepatitis C testing more accessible. This initiative aims to identify individuals living with hepatitis C and connect them to potentially life-saving treatments.

In conclusion, the Lancet Commission's findings serve as a clarion call for global health authorities to prioritize preventative measures against liver cancer. By addressing the underlying risk factors and enhancing public health initiatives, there is a significant opportunity to reduce the burden of liver cancer and improve patient outcomes worldwide.