Liver cancer

Hepatitis B can sometimes lead to serious problems in the liver if it stays in the body for a long time. One of the biggest concerns is that it can cause liver cells to grow in an unhealthy way, which may lead to liver cancer. This is more likely to happen if the liver has been damaged over many years by the infection.

Regular check-ups and blood tests can help find problems early, when they’re easier to treat. Taking medicine to control hepatitis B and protect the liver is also very important. Getting vaccinated and helping others learn about hepatitis B can make a big difference in preventing liver cancer.

What are the chances of getting liver cancer if you have hepatitis B?

It is estimated that people with chronic hepatitis B have a 20 to 100 times higher risk of developing primary liver cancer compared to the general population, according to the Cancer Council NSW. If you have chronic hepatitis B need to get monitored by your doctor regularly and talk to your doctor about what steps to take to lead a healthy lifestyle to try to lower your risks of developing liver cancer.