Chronic hepatitis B and hepatocellular carcinoma

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Oncology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) ranks as the fifth most common cancer globally and the third leading cause of cancer-related mortality.
• Over 80% of HCC cases originate from Asia and Africa, with mainland China accounting for over 50% of these cases.
• Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection affects 350-400 million people, serving as the predominant cause of HCC worldwide.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize the global epidemiology of Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC).
• To highlight the significant role of Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) in the global burden of HCC.
• To note emerging trends in HCC incidence in Western countries.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and epidemiological data analysis.
• Synthesis of global cancer statistics.
• Analysis of HBV infection prevalence and its correlation with HCC.

Main Results:

• HCC is a leading cause of cancer death, with the highest incidence in Asia and Africa.
• HBV is responsible for over 50% of liver cancers globally, with up to 89% of HBV-related HCC cases occurring in developing countries.
• Western countries, including France, Australia, and the United States, are reporting increasing trends in HCC incidence.

Conclusions:

• Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents a significant global health challenge, disproportionately affecting Asian and African populations.
• Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is the primary etiological factor for HCC worldwide, particularly in resource-limited settings.
• The rising incidence of HCC in Western nations warrants further investigation and public health attention.