Wear Green in October to Bring Awareness to This Cancer

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Liver cancer is the topic of a conversation worth having

Woman putting on liver cancer awareness ribbon.

Did you know that October is not only Breast Cancer Awareness Month, but it is also Liver Cancer Awareness Month? Though pink is the prevalent color when spreading breast cancer awareness, emerald green signifies liver cancer. Worldwide, this disease is a leading cause of cancer deaths. Diagnoses of liver cancer have tripled, and death rates have doubled since 1980.

The liver is one of the five organs that we cannot live without, aside from the brain, heart, kidney and lungs. So, it’s important to do what you can to prevent the disease. There are a few choices you can make that are linked to lowering your risk of liver cancer:

  • Limit alcohol use.
  • Do not smoke or quit smoking.
  • Eat a balanced diet.
  • Exercise regularly.
  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • Learn and address any genetic mutations that are linked to liver cancer.
  • Get the hepatitis B vaccine, and
  • If you contract the hepatitis B or C virus, receive treatment.

Many of the signs and symptoms of liver cancer do not present until the later stages. Since most of the liver is covered by the right rib cage, it can be difficult to see small tumors during imaging. There is also not a standard, recommended screening for liver cancer for people at average risk. However, those who are at a higher risk, including those who have cirrhosis (disease where liver cells are damaged and repaired with scar tissue), may have to have blood tests and ultrasounds every six months.

Without a recommended screening, it is important to know when you should see a doctor. Once liver cancer develops to later stages, the common symptoms that can occur are:

  • A hard lump on the right side just below the rib cage.
  • Discomfort in the upper abdomen on the right side.
  • A swollen abdomen.
  • Jaundice (the yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes).
  • Bruising or bleeding easily.
  • Unusual tiredness or weakness.
  • Nausea, vomiting and weight loss for no reason.
  • Pale, chalky bowel movements and dark urine.

To learn more about this disease, click here. If you or a loved one needs a gastroenterologist or an oncologist who treats liver cancer, Karmanos Cancer Institute and McLaren Health Care have experienced physicians who specialize in gastrointestinal diseases.