Popular television actress Dipika Kakar has recently been diagnosed with liver cancer. This news has come as a shock to many of her fans and has brought attention to the growing concern of liver-related diseases in India. Her diagnosis is a reminder that we should take liver health seriously. Dipika first shared this heartbreaking news through an emotional post on her official Instagram account, revealing that she was diagnosed with stage 2 liver cancer after experiencing stomach pain.
What is Liver Cancer?
Liver cancer is a condition in which abnormal or unhealthy cells start growing in the liver. These cells multiply and form a lump or tumor. The liver is an important organ that helps in digestion, stores energy, and removes harmful substances from the body. When it remains damaged for a long time, there is a higher chance of liver cancer developing.
There are two main types of liver cancer. The most common one is called hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which usually starts in the main liver cells. Another type is intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, which begins in the bile ducts of the liver.
Main Reasons for Liver Cancer
1. Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C Infections
These are long-term viral infections that silently damage the liver. Many people may carry the virus without any visible symptoms for years. Over time, the constant damage from these viruses causes inflammation, scarring, and eventually cancer.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), hepatitis B and C together cause about 80% of all liver cancer cases worldwide. In India, hepatitis B remains more common than hepatitis C and is a major reason behind liver cancer in both rural and urban areas.
2. Alcohol Overuse
Drinking alcohol in large quantities regularly harms liver cells. The liver tries to repair itself, but over time, repeated damage leads to scarring (cirrhosis), which increases the risk of cancer. Long-term alcohol use is one of the leading causes of liver cirrhosis in India. The National Cancer Institute (USA) has also confirmed that alcohol is a known carcinogen and raises the risk of liver cancer significantly.
3. Cirrhosis
Cirrhosis is a condition where the liver becomes stiff and scarred because of long-term damage. This condition may be caused by chronic hepatitis, alcohol abuse, or fatty liver disease. When cirrhosis sets in, the risk of liver cancer increases sharply. Studies show that 3–5% of people with cirrhosis develop liver cancer every year, especially if the underlying cause is not treated in time.
4. NAFLD (Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease)
Earlier, liver cancer was mostly linked to alcohol and hepatitis. But now, even people who don’t drink alcohol are getting liver cancer. This is due to NAFLD, a silent but fast-growing problem in India.
How NAFLD is Causing More Liver Cancer Cases
NAFLD stands for Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. It happens when fat starts collecting in the liver, even if the person doesn’t drink alcohol. This fat buildup leads to inflammation (called NASH), scarring (fibrosis), and later cirrhosis. From there, it can develop into liver cancer. This is now one of the most common causes of liver cancer, especially in people who are overweight, diabetic, or have high cholesterol.
Important Facts:
- A study published in the Journal of Hepatology in 2022 estimated that up to 25% of liver cancers worldwide are now related to NAFLD.
- In India, NAFLD is present in around 1 in every 3 adults, according to the **Indian National Association for the Study of the Liver (INASL).
Modern lifestyle habits like eating fast food, low physical activity, increased screen time, obesity, and diabetes are the main reasons behind the sharp rise in NAFLD.
Can Liver Cancer Be Prevented?
Yes, in many cases, liver cancer can be prevented with early action and lifestyle changes. Here are some important steps:
Regular Health Check-ups: Especially if you have diabetes, obesity, or family history of liver disease. Ask your doctor to do LFT (Liver Function Test) and ultrasound if needed. Also, please do the following.
1. Healthy Diet:
Eat fresh fruits, green vegetables, whole grains
Avoid junk food, fried snacks, sugar, and excess oil
Add liver-friendly foods like garlic, turmeric, papaya, and green tea
2. Try liver detox methods
Explore effective ways to cleanse and support your liver’s natural detoxification process.
3. Stay Physically Active:
At least 30 minutes of walking, yoga, or exercise daily
Even simple household work or walking after meals helps
4. Avoid Alcohol and Smoking:
These are harmful for the liver and increase cancer risk.
5. Maintain Healthy Weight:
Obesity is directly linked to NAFLD. Losing even 5-10% of weight can improve liver health.
6. Manage Blood Sugar and Cholesterol:
Keep your diabetes and cholesterol under control with proper treatment and lifestyle.
7. Vaccination:
Hepatitis B vaccine is available and helps prevent one major cause of liver cancer.
Why Dipika Kakar’s Case is a Wake-Up Call
Dipika Kakar’s diagnosis is a reminder that liver cancer can happen to anyone. Many people think only those who drink alcohol or have bad habits get liver cancer, but this is not true. Conditions like NAFLD can harm the liver slowly and silently. Her case encourages everyone to take preventive steps, make lifestyle changes, and go for regular checkups—even if they feel healthy.
References:
World Health Organization (WHO) – Liver cancer facts
Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – Guidelines on liver diseases
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), USA
News articles and interviews on Dipika Kakar’s health update
Indian National Association for the Study of the Liver (INASL)
Disclaimer:
This blog is meant for general awareness. Please consult a qualified doctor for any health concerns or treatment options.
Picture Credit - India Today
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