Chandigarh:- “Liver cancer is a serious disease that can develop directly in the liver or spread to the liver from another part of the body. Hepatocellular carcinoma is the most common type of liver cancer. One of the biggest challenges associated with this disease is that clear symptoms often do not appear in its early stages. Therefore, awareness of risk factors, early warning signs and modern treatment options is essential to ensure timely diagnosis and the initiation of appropriate treatment.”
Dr. Tegbir Singh Sidhu, Principal Consultant – Interventional Radiology at Max Hospital, Mohali, said that liver cancer often develops without any obvious symptoms in its early stages. As a result, many patients seek medical assistance only after the disease has progressed to an advanced stage. He said that as the disease advances, certain symptoms may appear, which should be taken seriously, and patients should consult a specialist without delay.
He clarified that such symptoms may also occur in other diseases related to the liver and digestive system. However, symptoms that persist for a long time or appear without any apparent reason should not be ignored. In such situations, timely medical evaluation is extremely important.
Highlighting the major risk factors for liver cancer, Dr. Sidhu explained that certain chronic liver conditions can increase the risk of developing this cancer. These include long-term infections with hepatitis B and hepatitis C, liver cirrhosis and other chronic liver diseases. He said that people affected by such risk factors should remain particularly vigilant about regular health check-ups and medical monitoring.
Providing information about treatment, Dr. Sidhu said that a single treatment approach cannot be adopted for every liver cancer patient. An individualised treatment plan must be prepared according to each patient's condition. This requires a detailed assessment of the type and stage of cancer, the size and location of the tumour, the number of tumours, liver function and the patient's overall health.
