Global Liver Cancer Strategy Unveiled by Chinese-Led Commission

New Roadmap Focuses on Prevention, Early Detection, and Treatment

A groundbreaking report, spearheaded by Chinese medical experts, has introduced a vital international strategy to combat the escalating global threat of liver cancer. Released on World Hepatitis Day, this comprehensive roadmap offers actionable public health interventions from prevention through to treatment.

A Landmark Publication

The report, titled “The Lancet Commission on addressing the global hepatocellular carcinoma burden: comprehensive strategies from prevention to treatment,” marks a historic moment, being the first global health research of its kind published in The Lancet to be led by Chinese academics in over two centuries. The extensive study involved 51 specialists from around the globe, including contributors from Japan, the Republic of Korea, the United States, and Spain.

Implementing Public Health Solutions

Fan Jia, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and co-chair of The Lancet Commission, highlighted the report’s unique focus. At a press conference at Zhongshan Hospital affiliated with Fudan University, he explained, “Unlike standard reviews or research articles, the report focuses on implementable public health strategies.” This approach aims to provide practical guidance for public health systems grappling with liver cancer, often dubbed a “silent killer” due to its insidious nature.

Shifting Risk Factors and Preventable Cases

The report systematically examines global practices, incorporating China’s considerable experience. It delves into liver cancer’s epidemiology, risk factor mitigation, early diagnostic methods, pathology, imaging, therapeutic approaches, and ethical considerations. A key observation is the changing landscape of liver cancer causes. While Hepatitis B and C remain primary drivers, the incidence of cases linked to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and alcohol consumption is increasing. Lifestyle factors such as high-sugar diets and obesity are also contributing to this global shift.

Remarkably, the report estimates that approximately 60 percent of liver cancer cases could be prevented. “China has accumulated valuable experience in prevention and control,” stated Zhou Jian, president of Zhongshan Hospital. “From hepatitis B vaccination and early screening to improvements in clinical care, our efforts show that liver cancer can be managed like other chronic diseases such as hypertension or diabetes.”

A Three-Tiered Strategy for Impact

To curb new liver cancer cases and fatalities, the commission proposes a clear, three-pronged strategy. Firstly, prevention efforts must prioritize expanded Hepatitis B vaccination, accessible antiviral treatments for Hepatitis B and C, and heightened public awareness regarding the dangers of poor diet and excessive alcohol intake.

Secondly, the integration of liver fibrosis screening into routine health checks for high-risk individuals, such as those with diabetes or obesity, is crucial. The broader adoption of non-invasive testing methods is also recommended to improve accessibility for more people.

Thirdly, the report calls for strengthened treatment systems. This includes enhancing access to essential medications, reducing regional disparities in care, and ensuring palliative care is integrated early in the treatment journey.

Urgent Global Action Required

Globally, liver cancer is a significant health burden, accounting for an estimated 870,000 new cases and 760,000 deaths annually. Without effective intervention, projections indicate a stark rise, with new cases potentially reaching 1.52 million and deaths climbing to 1.37 million by 2050. Modeling suggests that an average annual reduction of at least 2 percent in age-standardized incidence rates is necessary to reverse this trend. Such a reduction could prevent approximately 8.8 million new cases and 7.7 million deaths over the next 25 years, according to the report.