Liver cancer is one of the fastest growing causes of cancer deaths in Australia. While some risk factors can't be changed, there are steps you can take to lower your risk.
Here are seven ways to help protect your liver and reduce your chances of developing liver cancer.
1. Get vaccinated against hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is one of the leading causes of liver cancer worldwide.
All babies in Australia are offered the hepatitis B vaccine at birth, and adults at higher risk may also benefit. This includes Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, migrants from countries with high rates of hepatitis B, people living with someone who has hepatitis B, people who are immunocompromised and health care workers.
Vaccination is a simple and effective way to prevent infection and protect your liver.
2. Seek treatment for hepatitis B or C
If you've been diagnosed with hepatitis B or hepatitis C, regular monitoring and medical treatment can help reduce liver damage and your risk of cancer.
Antiviral medicines are available to manage hepatitis B and, while there is no vaccine for hepatitis C, it can be cured with medication.
While treatment lowers the risk, it doesn't eliminate it - so regular follow-ups remain important.
3. Drink less alcohol or don't drink at all
Long-term alcohol use is a major cause of cirrhosis, which significantly increases your risk of liver cancer.
If you drink, try to stick to the National Health and Medical Research Council guidelines - no more than 10 standard drinks per week and no more than four in one day.
If you have liver disease, your doctor may recommend avoiding alcohol altogether.
4. Maintain a healthy weight and manage type 2 diabetes
Obesity and type 2 diabetes can lead to a condition called metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), which can progress to cirrhosis and increase liver cancer risk.
Eating a balanced diet, being active most days, and managing your blood sugar levels can help reduce this risk and support overall liver health.
5. Avoid sharing needles or personal items that may carry blood
Hepatitis B and C can spread through blood-to-blood contact. Avoid sharing items like needles, razors, or toothbrushes.
If you're getting a tattoo or piercing, make sure it's done in a professional setting with proper hygiene standards.
6. Quit smoking
Smoking increases your risk of many cancers, including liver cancer. If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your health.
Support is available through programs like Quitline on 13 78 48, and even small steps can lead to long-term change.
7. If you're at higher risk, get regular liver checks
People with liver disease (especially cirrhosis), a history of viral hepatitis, or a family history of liver cancer should talk to their doctor about regular liver screening.
Monitoring might include blood tests or imaging, and it gives you the best chance of catching problems early - when treatment is most effective.
Looking ahead: A national plan for prevention
The growing rate of liver cancer in Australia has led to the development of the Roadmap to Liver Cancer Control in Australia - a national strategy focused on prevention, early detection, and better care.
By supporting hepatitis elimination, raising awareness of liver cancer risk factors, and promoting access to culturally safe care, this plan sets a clear direction to help reduce liver cancer deaths over the next decade.
Every action you take, whether it's getting vaccinated, quitting smoking, or speaking to your doctor, helps protect your liver and your future.
