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A new study published in the medical journal "The Lancet" on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, revealed that approximately 15 million deaths could be avoided over the coming decades if liver cancer prevention measures were strengthened, particularly by reducing risk factors such as viral hepatitis, alcohol consumption, and fatty liver. According to what was published by the European news network in Brussels, "Euronews,"
According to the study, 60% of liver cancer cases—three out of five—could be prevented through effective preventive measures. This type of cancer is currently the third leading cause of cancer death worldwide and the sixth leading cause of cancer deaths, with the number of cases expected to double over the next 25 years.
Increasing risk factors... and nutrition at the heart of the battle
The report indicates that lifestyle factors, primarily diet and alcohol consumption, are among the most prominent modifiable causes. Metabolic steatosis (MASLD) is emerging as a growing factor in the development of the disease. It is estimated that more than 10% of liver cancer cases by 2050 will be caused by this disorder, which may progress to cirrhosis or cancer in 2% to 5% of cases.
In France alone, an estimated 8 million people suffer from MASLD. Dr. Laurence Serfaty, a gastroenterologist at Strasbourg University Hospital, explains that "the disease is widespread, affecting approximately 80% of obese people and 60% of diabetics."
Serfaty emphasizes the importance of adopting effective preventive policies, saying: "Physical activity should be encouraged and consumption of sugars, saturated fats, and alcohol should be reduced, as these have a direct impact on improving liver condition and reducing inflammation and tissue damage. Weight loss alone significantly improves liver health indicators." Improving Vaccines... A Necessary Step to Reduce Deaths
In parallel, researchers are working to develop more effective vaccination programs against hepatitis B, one of the leading causes of liver cancer worldwide. This could contribute to a 2% to 3% reduction in mortality rates globally.
Data from the study shows that the number of deaths from liver cancer could rise from 760,000 in 2022 to 1.37 million in 2050 unless serious prevention measures are taken.
China is the most affected country, accounting for more than 40% of the world's liver cancer cases, primarily due to the prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) among its population. A global medical challenge with low survival rates. Professor Jian Zhu of Fudan University, one of the study's co-authors, emphasized the seriousness of this type of cancer, saying, "Liver cancer is one of the most difficult types of cancer to treat, with five-year survival rates ranging from only 5% to 30%, reflecting the urgent need to develop integrated preventive and therapeutic strategies."