Currently, nearly 10 million individuals in the United States and Europe are at a heightened risk of developing liver cancer. This group predominantly includes those with cirrhosis, a condition with various origins such as obesity leading to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) — a liver disease associated with fat accumulation, chronic infections from viral hepatitis B and C, and excessive alcohol consumption, which is perhaps the most widely recognised cause.
Early detection of liver cancer is crucial as it greatly enhances the prognosis by enabling access to curative treatments. These treatments vary, including local ablation that eradicates cancerous tissues and surgical resection to remove the afflicted liver segment. In some other early-stage cases, liver transplantation may be the best curative treatment option. This underscores the importance of regular biannual ultrasound screenings for high-risk individuals. However, the limited sensitivity of these screenings in detecting early-stage tumours often results in missed opportunities for timely interventions.
There is a pressing need for the development of more refined diagnostic methods with higher sensitivity. Improvements in screening technology could markedly increase early detection rates, offering a greater chance for effective treatment and improved survival outcomes for those battling this life-threatening condition.
