Liver cancer is emerging as a significant global health crisis, with a recent report in the esteemed medical journal The Lancet projecting a staggering 76 percent increase in annual cases by 2050. Experts are pointing to obesity and excessive alcohol consumption as primary drivers behind this alarming trend.

The report indicates that worldwide liver cancer cases coudl reach 1.52 million annually, a ample rise from 2022 figures. Survival rates for diagnosed liver cancer patients remain critically low, with only about 30 percent surviving five years, and in some instances, this figure drops to a mere 5 percent. The number of deaths attributed to liver cancer,which stood at 760,000 in 2022,is anticipated to climb to 1.37 million by 2050, an increase of approximately 81 percent.

The asian continent is expected to continue bearing the brunt of liver cancer cases, accounting for over 70 percent of the global total in 2050, mirroring current trends. Though,Africa is projected to experience the most dramatic surge,with a 145 percent increase in cases. While Europe’s increase is expected to be lower, new cases are still predicted to rise by 30 percent, with a corresponding 36 percent increase in mortality rates.

Experts emphasize that approximately 60 percent of preventable liver cancer cases are linked to Hepatitis B and C viruses, and also fatty liver diseases associated with alcohol consumption and obesity. To combat this escalating crisis, experts advocate for the rapid implementation of several key measures. These include expanding Hepatitis B vaccination programs, increasing Hepatitis C testing among adults, mandating warning labels on alcohol products, and banning alcohol advertisements. Furthermore,regular liver check-ups for individuals in at-risk groups are strongly recommended.