Related Experiment Videos
Randomized controlled trial of screening for hepatocellular carcinoma
Bo-Heng Zhang1, Bing-Hui Yang, Zhao-You Tang
1Liver Cancer Institute of Fudan University, Zhongshan Hospital, 180 Feng Lin Road, Shanghai 200032, China. bzhang@zshospital.net
Journal of Cancer Research and Clinical Oncology
|March 26, 2004
Summary
Biannual screening for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) significantly reduced HCC mortality by 37% in high-risk individuals. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of regular screening in preventing deaths from liver cancer.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Oncology
- Public Health
Background:
- Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) screening has been practiced for over two decades without definitive proof of reduced mortality.
- Individuals at increased risk for HCC require effective screening strategies to improve outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of a structured screening program on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) mortality.
- To assess the efficacy of biannual screening in a high-risk population.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial involving 18,816 participants aged 35-59 with hepatitis B virus infection or chronic hepatitis.
- Participants were assigned to either a biannual screening group (AFP test and ultrasonography) or a control group.
- Follow-up occurred until December 1998, with HCC mortality as the primary endpoint.
Main Results:
- The screening group experienced a significantly lower HCC mortality rate (83.2/100,000) compared to the control group (131.5/100,000), a reduction of 37%.
- Screening led to earlier detection of HCC, with higher rates of subclinical and small HCC diagnoses in the screened group.
- Improved survival rates were observed in the screened group, with 5-year survival at 46.4% versus 0% in controls.
Conclusions:
- Biannual screening for HCC is effective in reducing mortality among individuals at increased risk.
- Early detection through screening facilitates timely treatment, such as resection, and improves patient survival.
- The findings support the implementation of regular HCC screening programs in high-risk populations.