Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in the U.S. and there are three common types: breast, lung and colorectal cancer. One of the most difficult things about liver cancer treatment options is that it is not as well known as other cancers and so people do not know as much about it. Fortunately, we now have a detailed article that will provide you with all you need to know about treatments for liver cancer.
What are the causes of liver cancer?
The causes of liver cancer are not fully understood. It can be caused by viruses, exposure to certain chemicals, or heavy alcohol use. It can also be passed down through families. Some people may carry a gene that increases the risk of developing liver cancer.
Is there a link between alcohol consumption and liver cancer?
A study found that alcohol consumption increases the risk of liver cancer. The same study also showed that there is a link between smoking and increased chances for liver cancer. People with a family history of liver cancer and those who drink more than 3-4 alcoholic beverages per day have an increased risk of developing liver cancer.
However, the link is not clear because most people who drink alcohol also smoke cigarettes. There are two medications that can be used to treat liver cancer: Sorafenib and Nexavar. These medications slow the growth of tumor cells in the liver by blocking an enzyme called “RAF”.
Implementing treatment plans
There are many treatment plans for liver cancer, and it is important to understand the different options so you can choose the best one. Your doctor will look at your general health, age, lifestyle, and stage of the cancer when making recommendations. Sometimes surgery is needed to remove part or all of the tumor. Radiation therapy is often used if there are nearby lymph nodes that might be affected by the cancerous cells in your liver. Hormone therapies like tamoxifen may also be recommended.
Conclusion
If you have liver cancer, it is critical that you understand all the treatment options available to you. This blog post has discussed some of the more common treatments, but it is possible that there are options not mentioned here. If you are interested in treatment, please speak to your doctor about your specific situation.
