Liver cancer is one of the fastest rising causes of cancer-related deaths in the UK, and the third leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide.

More than 6,000 people die from liver cancer in the UK each year. Its major drivers are largely preventable, but public awareness of the scale of the problem remains low.

Most liver cancers develop in people with long-term liver disease. Strikingly, recent estimates suggest that around one in three adults worldwide are living with some form of liver disease.

Although liver disease is often mild in its early stages, some people will progress to more serious liver damage and a higher risk of liver cancer. Early action can help reduce this risk.

Obesity, type 2 diabetes, excess alcohol consumption and viral hepatitis are among the most common causes of liver disease.

As liver disease becomes increasingly common, rates of liver cancer will continue to rise without urgent action.

Modifiable risk factors

At least 60% of primary liver cancers – cancers that start in the liver – may be preventable by modifying risk factors

The liver is a remarkable organ and, when changes are made early, significant improvements can occur. Risks of both liver disease and liver cancer can be reduced by stopping or significantly cutting down on alcohol intake, quitting smoking, limiting ultra-processed foods, maintaining a healthy diet and staying physically active.

Importantly, these lifestyle changes not only benefit the liver.........

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