Risk factors of liver cancer

Factors that increase the risk of developing primary liver cancer include the following:

1) Hepatitis or inflammation of the liver caused by a viral infection. There are different types of hepatitis caused by different virus i.e. A, B, C, D, E and G. Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C are responsible for most cases of hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepatitis A does not increase your risk of developing liver cancer.

2) Cirrhosis, which is the scarring of liver cells that has several causes. In the United States, the most common causes of cirrhosis are hepatitis C and drinking too much alcohol. Fifty percent to 70% of liver cancers in the United States are associated with cirrhosis.

3) Direct contact with vinyl chloride (polyvinyl chloride or PVC)

4) Exposure to arsenic, a chemical used as a wood preservative, herbicide, insecticide, and in manufacturing some glass and metallic alloys. Some drinking water is contaminated by arsenic. It also exists in natural mineral deposits.

5) Anabolic steroids, which are male hormones used to treat certain conditions, and are sometimes used illegally by athletes to enhance performance. Long-term use may slightly increase the risk of liver cancer.