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Epidemiology of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in the Asia-Pacific Region
Ran Xu Zhu1, Wai-Kay Seto1,2, Ching-Lung Lai2
1Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.
Insights
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major cause of cancer death in the Asia-Pacific. Antiviral treatments for chronic hepatitis B (CHB) and chronic hepatitis C (CHC) effectively reduce HCC incidence.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Oncology
- Public Health
Background:
- Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the leading primary liver cancer globally and the third most common cancer-related death cause in the Asia-Pacific.
- HCC incidence is higher in males over 40.
- Chronic hepatitis B (CHB) and hepatitis C (CHC) infections are primary etiological agents in the Asia-Pacific, with CHB being the predominant cause except in Japan.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the epidemiology of HCC in the Asia-Pacific.
- To highlight the role of viral hepatitis in HCC development.
- To emphasize the importance of surveillance and antiviral treatment for HCC prevention.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of HCC incidence and prevalence in the Asia-Pacific.
- Analysis of etiological factors, particularly viral hepatitis.
- Evaluation of current trends and treatment implications.
Main Results:
- HCC incidence is stable in most of the Asia-Pacific, decreasing in Singapore and Hong Kong.
- Chronic hepatitis C (CHC) is a significant cause of HCC in Japan (70%), with increasing prevalence in Australia, New Zealand, and India.
- Antiviral therapies for CHB and CHC demonstrate efficacy in reducing HCC incidence.
Conclusions:
- HCC remains a significant health concern due to high mortality, despite treatment advancements.
- Effective surveillance programs are crucial for early diagnosis and improved treatment outcomes.
- Antiviral treatment for CHB and CHC is a key strategy for HCC prevention in the Asia-Pacific.
Abstract:
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the predominant primary liver cancer in many countries and is the third most common cause of cancer-related death in the Asia-Pacific region. The incidence of HCC is higher in men and in those over 40 years old. In the Asia-Pacific region, chronic hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C virus infections are the main etiological agents; in particular, chronic hepatitis B infection (CHB) is still the major cause in all Asia-Pacific countries except for Japan. Over the past two decades, the incidence of HCC has remained stable in countries in the region except for Singapore and Hong Kong, where the incidence for both sexes is currently decreasing. Chronic hepatitis C infection (CHC) is an important cause of HCC in Japan, representing 70% of HCCs. Over the past several decades, the prevalence of CHC has been increasing in many Asia-Pacific countries, including Australia, New Zealand, and India. Despite advancements in treatment, HCC is still an important health problem because of the associated substantial mortality. An effective surveillance program could offer early diagnosis and hence better treatment options. Antiviral treatment for both CHB and CHC is effective in reducing the incidence of HCC.
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