Articles

According to the data from the Hong Kong Hospital Authority and Cancer Registry (to be released in 2025), lung, breast, colorectal, liver, and prostate cancers are most common in Hong Kong and according to World Health Organization (WHO), the latest global data from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), lung cancer, breast cancer, and colorectal cancer are the most prevalent cancers in most parts of the world. Each has different causes—for example, smoking is strongly linked to lung cancer, alcohol abusers or hepatitis B carriers are prone to liver cancer, while people with a family history of hereditary breast cancer should have regular checkups to assess their cancer risk.                                             Cancer originates from genetic mutations in cells, causing uncontrolled growth. Causes include heredity, environmental pollution, smoking, alcohol consumption, and poor diet. Long-term exposure to carcinogens or chronic inflammation also increases risk.

Certain herbal or traditional medicines, if taken long term or in excess, can strain the liver and even cause drug induced injury. People should consult professionals before use to avoid misuse. The market offers many supplements, but not all are safe. Choosing products supported by scientific data and following expert advice are the only ways to truly benefit liver health without adding extra risk.

Children can also suffer from liver diseases, such as congenital metabolic disorders or viral hepatitis, with symptoms often subtle. Parents should watch for changes in appetite, jaundice, or fatigue, and arrange regular health check ups. Pregnant women face a heavier liver burden as they metabolize more hormones and nutrients. If conditions like hepatitis or fatty liver are present, both mother and baby may be affected. During pregnancy, avoiding alcohol, maintaining a balanced diet, and checking liver function regularly are essential for safety.

Liver fibrosis is the liver’s repair response after damage, but if it worsens it can progress to cirrhosis. Cirrhosis is the end stage of many liver diseases, where the liver gradually loses function and may cause ascites, jaundice, or even develop into liver cancer. Liver cancer often arises from chronic hepatitis or cirrhosis, with early symptoms being subtle, so regular screening is the only effective defense. People should monitor their condition through liver elasticity scans or blood tests, and treat underlying issues such as fatty liver or hepatitis early. High risk groups, such as hepatitis B carriers, are advised to undergo ultrasound or alpha fetoprotein tests every six months to reduce risk.

Viral hepatitis, such as types A, B, and C, is also a major factor damaging the liver. It is caused by different viruses, some preventable through vaccines. Good hygiene, avoiding shared needles, and practicing safe behaviors are key to lowering infection risk. Drug induced liver injury is another concern: certain medications or supplements, if taken long term or in excess, can burden the liver. People should avoid self medicating and consult professionals before using herbal remedies or supplements to safeguard liver health.

Fatty liver is the most widespread, often caused by obesity, poor diet, or lack of exercise. Early symptoms are subtle, but long term progression can lead to fibrosis or cirrhosis. Alcoholic liver disease results from excessive drinking, as toxic byproducts of alcohol metabolism accelerate liver cell damage. To prevent these conditions, people should maintain a balanced diet, reduce oil and sugar intake, exercise regularly, and control alcohol consumption—or even quit drinking.