Multicenter epidemiologic study on hepatocellular carcinoma in Turkey

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Oncology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Hepatocellular cancer (HCC) represents a significant public health challenge in Turkey due to its high prevalence and mortality rates.
• Understanding the clinical, demographic features, and risk factors associated with HCC is crucial for effective management and prevention strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the clinical and demographic characteristics of patients diagnosed with HCC in Turkey.
• To identify the primary risk factors contributing to the development of HCC within the Turkish population.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective study involving 963 patients diagnosed with HCC across 13 cities in Turkey.
• Data collection focused on patient demographics, etiological factors, and clinical indicators such as Child-Pugh score and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels.

Main Results:

• The study population comprised predominantly males (81%) with a male:female ratio of 4.8:1, and a median age of 61 years.
• Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection was the leading cause (57.6%), followed by hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection (16.5%) and chronic alcohol abuse (14.2%).
• Hepatitis B showed a strong male predominance, while hepatitis C had a higher incidence in women. Alcohol abuse was also more prevalent in males.

Conclusions:

• Viral etiologies, specifically hepatitis B and C infections, are the most significant factors in HCC development in the Turkish population.
• Chronic alcohol abuse is identified as the third major risk factor for HCC.
• Child-Pugh classification and elevated AFP levels are confirmed as important prognostic indicators for HCC patients.