Alcohol consumption has been a significant problem in society for all ages, and the condition is worsening with time, leading to major health risks.

The consumption of excessive alcohol leads to a variety of diseases, and the risk factor increases with the increasing drinks. One such issue caused by excessive alcohol consumption is liver cancer. In this article, we will discover how alcohol consumption leads to liver cancer and its effects on the human body.

What is liver cancer?

Liver cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the liver when healthy cells become abnormal and grow uncontrollably.

Symptoms of liver cancer may include abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, fatigue, jaundice, and swelling in the abdomen. Unfortunately, many symptoms of liver cancer do not appear until after the disease has advanced, which makes early detection critical.

The Link between Alcohol and Liver Cancer

The liver is an essential organ in the human body that performs many crucial functions. One of its functions is to filter harmful toxins out of the bloodstream.

Unfortunately, excessive alcohol consumption can cause severe damage to the liver’s ability to function correctly. Alcohol is a chemical that is broken down in the liver, and during this process, free radicals are produced that cause damage to DNA. This damage can lead to the formation of cancerous cells, which can then develop into liver cancer.

The Amount of Alcohol that can Cause Liver Cancer

There is no absolute amount of alcohol consumption that can cause liver cancer, but studies have shown that the risk increases with the amount of alcohol consumed.

According to the American Cancer Society, men should limit their alcohol consumption to two drinks per day, while women should limit their alcohol consumption to one drink per day to reduce their risk of liver cancer. Drinking more than this amount has been associated with increased risks of many health conditions, including liver cancer.

Other Factors that Increase the Risk of Liver Cancer

Although excessive alcohol consumption is a significant risk factor for liver cancer, there are several other factors that can also increase the risk of developing this disease. Some of these factors include:.

Chronic viral hepatitis (B and C)
Cirrhosis of the liver
Obesity
Smoking
Exposure to certain chemicals, such as aflatoxins

The Symptoms of Liver Cancer

Many symptoms of liver cancer do not appear until the disease has advanced. Some of the common symptoms of liver cancer include:.

Abdominal pain or swelling
Unexplained weight loss
Loss of appetite
Fatigue
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
Itching or rash
Nausea and vomiting
Fever
Enlarged liver
Enlarged spleen

Treatment Options for Liver Cancer

There are several treatment options available for liver cancer, but the most effective course of treatment depends on the extent of the disease and the patient’s overall health. Some of the common treatment options for liver cancer include:.

Surgery to remove the cancerous tissue
Chemotherapy to kill cancer cells
Radiation therapy to shrink tumors
Immunotherapy to help the immune system fight cancer cells
Liver transplant (in severe cases)

Prevention of Liver Cancer

The best way to prevent liver cancer is to reduce the risk factors associated with the disease, such as excessive alcohol consumption. Other effective ways to reduce the risk of liver cancer include:.

Getting vaccinated against hepatitis B
Getting screened for hepatitis C
Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise
Limiting exposure to chemicals that can cause liver damage
Quitting smoking

Conclusion

In conclusion, excessive alcohol consumption is a major risk factor for liver cancer, and the risk increases with the amount of alcohol consumed.

The most effective way to prevent liver cancer is to reduce the consumption of alcohol and eliminate other risk factors associated with the disease. By following healthy lifestyle habits, such as getting vaccinated against hepatitis B, maintaining a healthy weight, and quit smoking, people can significantly reduce their risk of developing liver cancer.