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Home > About ALF > Media Center

Report: Liver Cancer Deaths Rise 10% in Single Year

American Liver Foundation Recommends HCV Testing to Identify Cancer Risk.

NEW YORK, February 21, 2008 - Deaths from liver cancer rose 10% in a single year, according to an annual report on cancer released Wednesday by the American Cancer Society.

These findings underscore the urgency of the American Liver Foundation's research goals: to find better treatments for liver cancer and liver diseases such as hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection that increase the risk of liver cancer.

According to Cancer Facts and Figures 2008, while overall cancer deaths declined for a third straight year, liver cancer deaths rose to 18,410, representing a nearly 10% percent increase in the space of a single year.

One significant factor fueling the rise in liver cancer is the spread of HCV infection, a chronic liver disease. Many of those infected with HCV develop cirrhosis, or scarring of the liver, which in turn increases the risk of liver cancer. HCV is responsible for 60% of cases of the most common form of liver cancer, which accounts for 80-90% of all liver cancers.

Already, four million Americans are infected with HCV, and experts expect HCV-related complications, including liver cancer, to increase by up to 81% over the next 20 years. HCV is the most common blood-borne infection in the United States.

"It is more important than ever for Americans to get tested for liver diseases such as HCV and to find out whether they are at increased risk of liver cancer," said Dr. James Boyer, Chair of the Board of Directors for the American Liver Foundation.

Among doctors and patients alike, lack of understanding of HCV is widespread and leaves many undiagnosed, untreated, and at risk for complications such as liver cancer. HCV infection may cause no symptoms, and HCV testing is not included in standard care. As a result, many people with HCV have no idea that they are infected.

The American Liver Foundation recommends testing for persons with any of the risk factors, including past or current use of needles or other equipment to inject illegal drugs, receiving blood transfusions prior to 1992, sharing razors, and exposure to unclean tattooing or body-piercing instruments.

Fortunately, treatment options are available, and the American Liver Foundation urges those infected with HCV to discuss the pros and cons of HCV treatment thoroughly with their doctor.

About the American Liver Foundation

The American Liver Foundation is the nation’s leading nonprofit organization promoting liver health and disease prevention. ALF provides research, education and advocacy for those affected by liver-related diseases including hepatitis.

Page updated: February 27th, 2008