Does Hepatitis Cause Liver Cancer?

Does Hepatitis Cause Liver Cancer?

Does Hepatitis Cause Liver Cancer?

The word ‘Hepatitis’ means inflammation of the liver and Hepatitis C is an infection of the liver caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV) The presence of HCV in the liver triggers the human immune system, which leads to inflammation.

It is believed that specific parts of the hepatitis B and C virus gradually enters the liver cells, and once they are absorbed, the genetic code of cells begins to change. This causes the liver cells to divide into cancerous or malignant cells. Hepatitis C is responsible for cirrhosis (scarring of the liver).

Doctors have found that Liver cancer does not develop immediately following an infection. Most people who eventually develop liver cancer have lived with hepatitis for a great part of their life.

Scarring of the Liver is an irreversible condition that results in the death of many liver cells. This decreases the livers ability to function properly. When this happens the liver is prone to illnesses such as cancer. Typically, it takes about ten to fifteen years for liver cancer to occur after scarring occurs.

Chronic liver infection by both hepatitis B and C inflames the liver and kills liver cells. When these liver cells are damaged or destroyed, the body has to constantly replace them.

Doctors have found that when cells are being replaced too frequently, there is increased danger that mutations within the cells will be passed along until the cells lose their ability to control their own growth.

This is when liver cancer may develop. There is also strong evidence that hepatitis B can enter liver cells. This will disrupt the cells genes and  cause them to become cancerous cells.

You should always consult with your doctor before taking any medication or commencing any medical program.

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