On October 11, Jorge Marrero, M.D., Associate Professor and Director, Multidisciplinary Tumor Program, University of Michigan Health System, gave a highly informative seminar about the risks of developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC, or primary liver cancer). According to Dr. Marrero, the risk of HCC due to chronic HBV or HCV is much higher than the risk of lung cancer from smoking. In fact, liver cancer is the sixth most common cancer in the world and the third leading cause of cancer death worldwide. In the U.S., HCC is the fastest growing cancer; however, it is an unmet need due to lack of additional federal funding or resources to address the problem.

Dr. Marrero has created a remarkable clinical network, collecting specimens from early stage liver cancer (considered to be the largest early stage cohort). His research shows the effects of alcohol, tobacco, and obesity are potent independent risk factors for HCC (vs. cirrhosis) in patients with underlying chronic liver disease. He also collaborates with HBF scientists in the National Cancer Institute’s Early Detection Research Network that is looking at biomarkers for early stage HCC. The earlier HCC is detected, the better the prognosis.