Lancet Commission: 60% Liver Cancers Preventable Globally

The Lancet Commission's extensive analysis reveals that over 60% of global liver cancer cases could be prevented by addressing key risk factors such as hepatitis B and C infections, alcohol consumption, obesity, and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Liver cancer cases are projected to rise from 870,000 in 2022 to 1.52 million by 2050, while deaths could increase from 760,000 to 1.37 million, driven by population growth, aging, and rising prevalence of fatty liver disease and alcohol-related liver disease. The commission emphasizes urgent international interventions including increased hepatitis vaccination, screening, public awareness, and policy changes to reduce alcohol consumption and manage obesity. Rising liver cancer rates are notably pronounced in Africa due to high hepatitis prevalence and population growth, while Europe and North America see increases mainly due to MASLD and alcohol use. The proportion of liver cancers caused by hepatitis B and C is expected to decline slightly, but cases linked to alcohol and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis are projected to increase. Without coordinated global action, liver cancer cases and deaths could nearly double by 2050, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive prevention strategies.