Public health measures that reduce exposure to known risk factors can help prevent most liver cancer.

Avoiding hepatitis infections

Worldwide, the biggest risk factor is infection with the hepatitis B or C virus. There is a vaccine to prevent hepatitis B. All children (as well as adults at high risk) should get this vaccine.

There is no vaccine for hepatitis C. Preventing hepatitis C (and hepatitis B in people who have not had the vaccine) is based on knowing how it spreads. The virus is spread through blood transfusions, from dirty needles (as in drug use), by having unprotected sex, and through childbirth. In the United States the risk of getting a hepatitis infection from a blood transfusion is very low.

There are a number of drugs used to treat people who have hepatitis C or B. How well they work is still being studied. Whether these drugs help prevent liver cancer is also under study. If you have hepatitis B or C you should talk to your doctor about these drugs.

Limiting alcohol use and not using tobacco

In the U.S., alcohol abuse is a major cause of the cirrhosis that can lead to liver cancer. But preventing liver cancer caused by alcohol abuse remains a challenge. Quitting smoking may also slightly lower the risk of liver cancer, as well as the risk for many other deadly diseases.

Food and chemical safety

Changing the way certain grains are stored in warm countries could reduce exposure to cancer-causing substances, like aflatoxins. Many modern countries have rules to keep grains safe. They also have laws to protect people from cancer-causing chemicals. Because of these measures, there is very little liver cancer caused by chemicals.

Treating diseases that increase liver cancer risk

Certain inherited diseases can cause cirrhosis of the liver, increasing the risk for liver cancer. Finding and treating these diseases early in life could lower this risk.

Last Medical Review: 01/09/2009
Last Revised: 05/06/2009