Can hepatitis cause liver cancer?

Worldwide, 80% of liver cancers are caused by long-term hepatitis infection. As you are probably aware, there are mainly 3 types of hepatitis infection Hepatitis A, B, and C. Among these infections, Hepatitis A does not cause liver cancer. However, Hepatitis B and C are dangerous. These viruses might hide in your body without any warning. And, if not detected and treated, this could lead to liver cancer later on in life.

How do Hepatitis B and C spread?

Approximately 350 million people live with Hepatitis B infection, and 170 million with Hepatitis C . This virus transmits from one individual to another through semen, blood, and other body fluids. That means it can spread through:

1. Sex with an infected person without protection.
2. Sharing needles, seen commonly amongst intravenous drug users.
3. Sharing glucose monitoring strips to check blood sugar levels amongst household members.
4. Sometimes from mother to infant during childbirth.

How do you prevent Hepatitis B and C infections?

There is an effective vaccination against Hepatitis B. It is an intramuscular injection commonly available at all reputed hospitals. However, there is no vaccination against Hepatitis C. Hence, safe sex is an important strategy to prevent both Hepatitis C and B infections. Moreover, by avoiding hepatitis infection, we can reduce the risk of liver cancer in our population. 

If you are diagnosed with Hepatitis B or C, how do you prevent liver cancer?

Hepatitis C can be treated effectively with medicines. But, the Hepatitis B virus can't be eliminated from the body forever with any medications. Still, with the help of medications, you can lower the viral load in the body, thereby reducing the chances of liver cancer.

In short, prevention is better than cure. If you are not vaccinated against Hepatitis B, do it today. Practice safe sex. And, if you are diagnosed with hepatitis B or C, remain in touch with your cancer doctor. Do periodical tests to detect any liver cancer at a very early stage so that it can be nipped in the bud.