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Alarming evidence suggests that what we eat, and how we live, could be major contributors to lung cancer
According to experts, alcohol is linked to at least six types of cancer, including liver cancer and causes over 5% of all cancer cases worldwide. So, it’s more serious than we often think.
While most of us think twice about sugar intake or processed food for fear of weight gain or diabetes, we rarely consider what these choices mean for one of the most vital organs in our body the liver. Liver cancer, once considered a rare disease in India, is now emerging as a growing public health concern. Alarming evidence suggests that what we eat, and how we live, could be major contributors to this silent but deadly condition.
Dietary Habits and Sedentary Lifestyle: A Dangerous Combo
“Liver cancer might sound like a distant concern, but some everyday habits could be putting us at risk without us even realizing it,” says Dr. Anubhav Harish Khandelwal, Associate Director, Radiology and Imaging, Medanta–The Medicity Hospital, Gurugram. Here’s how:
● Eating too much junk and processed food
Let’s face it, our love for chips, sugary snacks, instant noodles, and fast food has gone up. These foods are often packed with unhealthy fats and sugars. Over time, eating like this can lead to weight gain, diabetes, and other health issues that silently harm the liver.
● Not moving enough
With so much of our time spent sitting at desks, in front of screens, or even during long commutes our bodies are getting less exercise than they need. This inactive lifestyle increases the chances of developing fatty liver, which can slowly lead to liver damage or even liver cancer.
● Too much alcohol
Drinking occasionally may seem harmless, but regular or heavy drinking takes a big toll on the liver. According to experts, alcohol is linked to at least six types of cancer, including liver cancer and causes over 5% of all cancer cases worldwide. So, it’s more serious than we often think.
The growing trend of sugary drinks, junk food, and processed meals has led to a rise in fatty liver disease, even among young adults and children. “Earlier, fatty liver-related HCC was largely seen among affluent groups. But today, it’s affecting people across all socioeconomic backgrounds. There’s no longer a clear link to income it’s widespread,” says Dr. Khandelwal
Adding to this, Dr B Jignesh Reddy, Consultant Interventional Radiologist, AIG hospital, Gachibowli, points out, “As life expectancy increases, elderly people are getting more and more hepatocellular carcinoma. We’re now seeing fewer liver cancer cases linked to hepatitis B and C. Instead, more elderly people are being diagnosed with liver cancer even though they’ve never had any liver disease before.”
Recognising the Symptoms
“Liver cancer tends to stay under the radar in its early stages but there are signs you shouldn’t ignore like constant fatigue, unexplained weight loss, or a dull ache or swelling in the upper abdomen.” says Dr. Anubhav. He also adds that yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), along with a drop in appetite or persistent nausea, can also point to liver trouble. “These symptoms can easily be brushed off or confused with other issues, which is why routine check-ups, especially for those at risk, are so important. Catching it early can truly change the outcome.”
Treatment After Diagnosis: Is TACE a Reliable Choice?
“When someone is diagnosed with liver cancer, the treatment really depends on how far the disease has progressed. If it’s caught early and the patient is fit enough, surgery or a liver transplant is the best option and, in many cases, it can be lifesaving” explains Dr. Reddy.
But the reality is, not everyone gets diagnosed early. “Only about 20–25% of the liver cancer patients we see are able to go through surgery. Most come to us at a stage where surgery isn’t possible. In such cases, our focus shifts to improving their quality of life and helping them live longer” He shares.
One of the most effective methods for such patients is a minimally invasive procedure called TACE short for transarterial chemoembolization. Dr. Reddy explains, “We thread a thin tube through a blood vessel in the groin or wrist and guide it straight to the blood supply feeding the tumor. Then, we release a dose of chemotherapy right at the tumor site.”
Over the years, TACE has become even more advanced. “There’s a newer version called balloon-assisted TACE,” he adds. “It helps push more of the medicine directly into the tumor while protecting the healthy parts of the liver.”
Prevention: Still Our Best Bet
Experts unanimously stress the importance of lifestyle modification as the first line of defense. “We need to take care of our lifestyle, avoid excess fatty food and alcohol, and ensure safe infection control practices to prevent a large number of liver cancer cases,” says Dr. Khandelwal.
Routine liver function tests, lipid profiles, and abdominal ultrasounds should be part of regular health check-ups specially for people with diabetes, hypertension, or obesity.
As India stands at the crossroads of a potential liver disease epidemic, informed food choices, early diagnosis, and timely intervention could turn the tide. After all, what’s on your plate today could shape your liver health tomorrow.
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