The Changing Global Epidemiology of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma is among the leading causes of morbidity and mortality. Owing to the current epidemic of metabolic syndrome, the population affected by nonalcoholic fatty liver disease/nonalcoholic steatohepatitis continues to increase and now comprises a significant portion with those with hepatocellular carcinoma. The World Health Organization goal of obtaining universal hepatitis B virus vaccination has led to a global effort to improve vaccination, prevent mother-to-child transmission, and implement linkage to care to avoid the development of hepatocellular carcinoma. In contrast with the decreased burden of chronic hepatitis C virus, there has been an increase in new-onset acute hepatitis C virus.

Keywords: Epidemiology; Hepatitis B; Hepatitis C; Hepatocellular carcinoma; NASH; Opioid crisis.