Prophylaxis of liver cancer
An important preventive measure is the prevention of diseases that can cause hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer) – e.g. liver cirrhosis, hepatitis. If there is an alcohol problem, abstinence must be achieved immediately, especially if cirrhosis of the liver has already been detected. In order to avoid one of the numerous liver inflammations, a vaccination (hepatitis A, hepatitis B) should be considered early on.
Since there is no vaccination against hepatitis C, precautions should be taken with regard to the sources of transmission (protected sexual intercourse, disposable syringes for heroin addiction). Patients who are known to have cirrhosis of the liver or hepatitis infection should see their doctor every six months for a preventive examination – ultrasound and tumor marker determination.
