Etiologic, epidemic, medical and economic aspects of hepatocellular carcinoma

   The objective of the review is to systematize current information on the prevalence of viral hepatitis B and C, the risks of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) against their background and methods of its treatment and prevention.

   The highest prevalence of HCC is observed in the countries of Southeast Asia, which agrees with the prevalence of viral hepatitis B and C in these regions, as well as with the peculiarities of nutrition. It has been noted that increased alcohol consumption and metabolic syndrome are also risk factors for HCC in patients with viral hepatitis B or C. When diagnosed in early stages, HCC is treatable with locoregional techniques including surgical resection, radiofrequency ablation, transarterial chemoembolization, or liver transplantation. Methods for preventing HCC development include a healthy lifestyle, avoidance of bad habits, monitoring of liver condition if the patient has viral hepatitis. Timely vaccination against hepatitis B and correct treatment of hepatitis C are expected to reduce the number of patients with HCC. Universal screening for hepatitis B virus infection among adults aged 18–69 years is cost-effective. Standardization of HCC diagnosis and implementation of surveillance programs for at-risk individuals are critical for earlier diagnosis. Future efforts should focus on expanding our knowledge of the causes of HCC, identifying highly specific biomarkers, preventing HCC, and developing more effective treatments.

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