Jornal de Ensaios Clínicos sobre Câncer

The Silent Threat: Hepatitis and its Link to Liver Cancer

Abstract

Hernandez Felix

Hepatitis, a group of viral infections that target the liver, has long been recognized as a silent threat to global public health. This insidious disease affects millions of people worldwide, often going undetected until it progresses to severe stages. What many people don't realize is that hepatitis can have a direct and deadly link to liver cancer. Hepatitis is a viral infection that primarily targets the liver, the body's detoxifying and metabolic powerhouse. There are several forms of hepatitis, with hepatitis A, B, C, D and E being the most common. Each type is caused by different viruses and is transmitted through various means. While hepatitis A and E typically result in acute infections that resolve on their own, hepatitis B and C can lead to chronic infections that may persist for years, often causing extensive liver damage. Liver cancer, also known as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is a malignancy that originates in the liver. It is a significant global health concern due to its high mortality rate and often latestage diagnosis.