Liver Cancer: Warning Signs and Importance of Early Detection

Despite its relatively low incidence, liver cancer remains a serious health concern in India, ranking as the 11th most common cancer overall. According to the WHO’s Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN 2022), the country recorded 38,703 new cases and 36,953 deaths from the disease. Liver cancer is often diagnosed late because its early symptoms can be subtle and easily mistaken for routine health problems. Many people dismiss these signs as stress, indigestion, or seasonal illness, allowing the disease to progress silently. This delay in diagnosis is one of the biggest challenges in treating liver cancer. What makes early awareness especially important is that the liver plays a vital role in digestion, detoxification, and energy production. When something goes wrong, the effects are felt across the body. Paying attention to persistent, unexplained changes, no matter how minor they seem, can help catch the disease early, when treatment options are more effective. Symptoms That May Indicate Liver Cancer Unexplained weight loss is often one of the first warning signs. The body begins to lose weight rapidly without any intentional changes in diet, exercise, or lifestyle, signalling that something is wrong internally. Loss of appetite may follow, where meals no longer feel satisfying and hunger reduces noticeably. Even small portions can feel overwhelming, leading to reduced nutrition and further weakness. Upper abdominal pain, especially on the right side, can occur as the liver becomes enlarged or inflamed. This pain may be dull, persistent, or worsen after eating. Jaundice is a clear and visible sign of liver dysfunction. The skin and whites of the eyes turn yellow as the liver fails to process bilirubin effectively, often accompanied by fatigue and itching. Abdominal swelling may develop due to fluid buildup in the abdomen, a condition known as ascites. The stomach may feel tight, heavy, or unusually distended. Fatigue and weakness are common and can feel overwhelming. Even routine activities may leave you exhausted, as the body struggles to function with a compromised liver. Nausea and vomiting can become frequent. These symptoms may appear without obvious digestive issues and often worsen over time. Dark-coloured urine is another important warning sign. As the liver’s filtering ability declines, waste products build up and change the colour of urine. Pale or clay-coloured stools may indicate a disruption in bile production or flow, which plays a crucial role in digestion and waste elimination. Itchy skin can become intense and constant, sometimes without any visible rash. This itching is caused by bile salts accumulating in the bloodstream. Easy bruising and bleeding may occur as the liver loses its ability to produce proteins necessary for blood clotting. Even minor injuries can result in noticeable bruises or prolonged bleeding. Fever without a clear infection can also be a warning sign. It may reflect inflammation or cancer-related changes occurring within the body. If these symptoms appear, persist, or worsen, it is essential to consult a doctor without delay. Early detection of liver cancer can be life-saving, and paying attention to these warning signs could make all the difference. (Disclaimer: This content is intended for general information and awareness. It does not replace professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Seek medical advice from a qualified doctor for any health concerns.)