Karmanos Cancer Institute Shines a Light on Liver Cancer: Know the Risks, Signs, and Advanced Treatments

DETROIT – October 13, 2025 – In recognition of Liver Cancer Awareness Month, the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute is highlighting the critical importance of understanding this disease. Liver cancer is a significant global health concern, with over 800,000 people diagnosed worldwide each year. In the U.S. alone, new cases are estimated to exceed 42,200 in 2025. Over the past few decades, the incidence of liver cancer has tripled and death rates have doubled, making public awareness more vital than ever.

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Lowering Your Risk of Liver Cancer

Your liver is one of the body's most essential organs. Taking proactive steps to maintain its health is crucial for prevention. The following lifestyle choices and preventive measures are directly linked to a lower risk of liver cancer:

• Limit alcohol consumption.
• Do not smoke or quit smoking.
• Maintain a balanced diet and a healthy weight.
• Exercise regularly.
• Get the hepatitis B vaccine and seek treatment if you contract hepatitis B or C.
• Address any genetic mutations linked to the disease.

The Signs, Symptoms, and Screening

One of the greatest challenges with liver cancer is that early-stage symptoms are often absent. Dr. Najeeb Al Hallak, a medical oncologist at Karmanos, emphasizes the importance of screening for high-risk individuals. "For patients who have a high risk of developing liver cancer—this includes people who have cirrhosis, a chronic hepatitis B infection, or hereditary hemochromatosis—we can do blood tests and ultrasounds, or MRI, every six months to try to monitor and identify cancer as early as we can," he explained.

For those without a recommended screening protocol, it's essential to recognize the common symptoms that may appear in later stages:

• A hard lump or discomfort in the upper right abdomen.
• A swollen abdomen.
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).
• Unexplained weight loss, nausea, or vomiting.
• Easy bruising or bleeding.
• Pale bowel movements and dark urine.
• Unusual fatigue or weakness.

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Advanced Liver Cancer Treatment at Karmanos

The Gastrointestinal and Neuroendocrine Oncology Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) at Karmanos brings together a comprehensive group of specialists, including oncologists, radiologists, and dietitians, to provide personalized, state-of-the-art care.

Karmanos is at the forefront of liver cancer treatment, offering a range of innovative therapies:

• Immunotherapy and advanced radiation therapy.
• Minimally invasive surgery.
• The TheraBionic P1 device, a portable, FDA-approved device that uses radiofrequency electromagnetic fields to block tumor cell growth in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Karmanos was the first cancer center to prescribe this device outside of clinical trials.
• Clinical trials, which provide access to new and emerging treatments not yet available at most other institutions.

For more information or to schedule a second opinion with a liver cancer specialist, visit karmanos.org/secondopinion or call 1-800-KARMANOS (800-527-6266).