(NC) When most people think about cancer risk, they often think about smoking, alcohol, genetics or too much time in the sun. Few realize that a virus can also increase their risk of developing cancer.
Oncoviruses are a small group of viruses that affect cell growth. Some alter cells directly, while others create conditions that can increase the risk of cancer, such as long-term tissue inflammation or weakening the immune system. Hepatitis B is an example of an oncovirus that can do both.
Hepatitis B can become chronic
Chronic hepatitis B, also known as CHB, is a long-term viral infection that affects the liver. Because it often causes no symptoms for many years, many people are unaware they’re living with it. Left undiagnosed and untreated, the disease can quietly damage the liver over time and significantly increase the risk of serious health complications, including liver cancer.
In fact, peer-reviewed research has found that CHB is responsible for as many as 56 per cent of liver cancer cases worldwide, making it one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths globally.i Research suggests that people living with hepatitis B may have a similar—or higher—risk of developing liver cancer than someone who smokes a pack of 20 cigarettes each day.
Liver cancer isn’t inevitable
Early diagnosis allows healthcare providers to monitor liver health, identify signs of damage and determine whether treatment is appropriate. With regular monitoring and advances in treatment, many people with CHB can reduce their risk of serious complications and live long, healthy lives.
One of the biggest challenges is that there are many people who acquired it at birth or during early childhood and may not know they have it, because they don’t have symptoms. Recent national guidelines now recommend that all Canadians be screened for hepatitis B at least once; they also make more people living with CHB eligible for treatment. If you were born or have lived in a region where hepatitis B is more common, including many countries in Central, Southeast and East Asia or sub-Saharan Africa, consider talking to your healthcare provider to learn about getting connected to ongoing hepatitis B care and support.
Building a care plan and staying engaged in regular monitoring, follow-up and treatment when needed is an important way to protect your liver health and reduce the risk of serious complications over time.
