Etiological, Epidemiological, and Medical-Economic Aspects of Hepatocellular Carcinoma (A Review)

The review aimed to systematize current information on the prevalence of viral hepatitis B and C, the risks of developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) against the background of hepatitis, and methods of its treatment and prevention. The highest prevalence of HCC is observed in the countries of Southeast Asia, which is consistent with the prevalence of viral hepatitis B and C in these regions, as well as with nutritional characteristics. It has been noted that increased alcohol consumption and metabolic syndrome are also risk factors for the development of HCC in patients with viral hepatitis B or C. When diagnosed during the early stages, HCC can be treated with locoregional methods, including surgical resection, radiofrequency ablation, transarterial chemoembolization, or liver transplantation. The treatment of hepatitis B and C should be comprehensive and include both antiviral drugs and agents to support liver function. Methods for preventing the development of HCC include a healthy lifestyle, giving up bad habits, and monitoring the liver condition if the patient has viral hepatitis. It is predicted that timely vaccination against hepatitis B and correct treatment of hepatitis C should reduce the number of patients with HCC. Universal screening for hepatitis B virus infection among the population aged 18–69 years is cost-effective. Standardization of HCC diagnostics and implementation of surveillance programs for individuals at risk are critical for earlier diagnosis. Future focus should be on expanding our knowledge of the causes of HCC, identifying highly specific biomarkers, preventing HCC, and developing effective treatments.