Ishita Roy

Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Most Common Liver Cancer In Adults On The Rise- Know Early Symptoms And Treatment

Liver Cancer

A growingly dominant health concern throughout the world, <span>Hepatocellular</span> carcinoma, or HCC, deserves a crucial understanding, especially as its prevalence continues to rise.

Hepatocellular carcinoma is the most common form of primary <span>liver <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health/cancer">cancer</a></span>. It initiates in the body, beginning from the <span>liver</span> cells, or hepatocytes, usually developing in individuals with underlying <span>liver disease</span>s, such as chronic hepatitis B or C infections, cirrhosis and fatty liver disease.

Due to several factors, the reported cases of HCC have been climbing globally:

1. Chronic Viral Infections: Hepatitis B and C are vital factors of risk. With millions under its effect worldwide, these infections can cause liver damage and boost the risk of HCC.

2. <span><a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health/non-alcoholic-fatty-liver">Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver</a></span> Disease (NAFLD): A hike in rates of obesity have led to equal soar in cases of NAFLD, which can germinate to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and eventually, HCC.

3. Alcohol Consumption: Chronic and long-lasting abuse of alcohol is one more vital contributor to liver disease and HCC.

4. Environmental Factors: Being exposed to certain kinds of toxins and aflatoxins (found in mouldy grains) can also raise the <span>cancer</span> risk.

<h4>Symptoms and Diagnosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma</h4>

The initial spotting of HCC is rather difficult, for the condition often tends to remain asymptomatic in its natal stages. 

<h4>As the disease goes on, symptoms may include:</h4>

<ul><li>Unexplained weight loss</li><li>Loss of appetite</li><li>Upper abdominal pain</li><li>Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)</li><li>Swelling in the abdomen</li></ul>

Diagnosis typically involves imaging tests—such as ultrasound, CT scans and MRIs—alongside blood tests that measure liver function and detect tumour markers.

Preventing Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) involves addressing its underlying causes:

<strong>Vaccination</strong>: Hepatitis B vaccination can lower down the risk of liver cancer.

<strong>Healthy Lifestyle</strong>: By maintaining a balanced diet, coupled with regular exercise and lesser alcohol intake, one can prevent liver disease.

<strong>Screening</strong>: Regular check-ups for those at high-risk can often lead to early-stage detection, thereby bettering the treatment outcomes.

A soaring public health concern associated with various risk factors, Hepatocellular carcinoma is particularly a chronic liver disease. In order to combat this rise, awareness and preventive measures are crucial. 

If you appear to have any risk factors, regular check-ups at your nearest healthcare centre are essential for early diagnosis and management of the disease.

Health Conditions A-Z

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cancer

liver cancer

liver

Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver

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cancer disease

liver disease

Hepatocellular

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A growingly dominant health concern throughout the world, Hepatocellular carcinoma, or HCC, deserves a crucial understanding, especially as its prevalence continues to rise.Hepatocellular carcinoma is the most common form of primary liver cancer. It initiates in the body, beginning from the liver cells, or hepatocytes, usually developing in individuals with underlying liver diseases, such as chronic hepatitis B or C infections, cirrhosis and fatty liver disease.Rising IncidenceDue to several factors, the reported cases of HCC have been climbing globally:1. Chronic Viral Infections: Hepatitis B and C are vital factors of risk. With millions under its effect worldwide, these infections can cause liver damage and boost the risk of HCC. 2. Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): A hike in rates of obesity have led to equal soar in cases of NAFLD, which can germinate to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and eventually, HCC.3. Alcohol Consumption: Chronic and long-lasting abuse of alcohol is one more vital contributor to liver disease and HCC.4. Environmental Factors: Being exposed to certain kinds of toxins and aflatoxins (found in mouldy grains) can also raise the cancer risk.Symptoms and Diagnosis of Hepatocellular CarcinomaThe initial spotting of HCC is rather difficult, for the condition often tends to remain asymptomatic in its natal stages. As the disease goes on, symptoms may include:Unexplained weight lossLoss of appetiteUpper abdominal painJaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)Swelling in the abdomenDiagnosis typically involves imaging tests—such as ultrasound, CT scans and MRIs—alongside blood tests that measure liver function and detect tumour markers.Prevention and ManagementPreventing Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) involves addressing its underlying causes:Vaccination: Hepatitis B vaccination can lower down the risk of liver cancer.Healthy Lifestyle: By maintaining a balanced diet, coupled with regular exercise and lesser alcohol intake, one can prevent liver disease.Screening: Regular check-ups for those at high-risk can often lead to early-stage detection, thereby bettering the treatment outcomes.A soaring public health concern associated with various risk factors, Hepatocellular carcinoma is particularly a chronic liver disease. In order to combat this rise, awareness and preventive measures are crucial. If you appear to have any risk factors, regular check-ups at your nearest healthcare centre are essential for early diagnosis and management of the disease.

the most common liver cancer in adults is on the rise

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Parents of teens are always complaining about the amount of sleep their kids get. No matter how many hours teens sleep, they always seem tired. However, that is not a coincidence. According to <span>Johns Hopkins Medicine</span>, teens experience a natural shift in circadian rhythm, making it difficult to fall asleep at their usual time. They also need nine or more hours of sleep every day. That is because they are at a crucial stage of cognitive development, a stage of cognitive maturation, which is supported by appropriate amounts of sleep. 

So, what happens when they do not sleep as much? Does it hinder their cognitive development? 

A new study reveals that sleep deprivation in teenagers can lead to significant brain changes, potentially increasing impulsive and aggressive behaviors. Published on June 13th in the journal Brain and Behavior, the findings highlight the critical role sleep plays in adolescent brain development and mental well-being. 

<h2>Default Mode Network and Behavior </h2>

This study looked at how sleep affects a special part of the brain called the "default mode network" (DMN). Think of the DMN as your brain's "idle mode" or "daydreaming mode." It's active when you're just relaxing, not trying to focus on something specific, maybe thinking about yourself or letting your mind wander. The researchers found that when teens didn't get enough sleep, the different parts of this daydreaming network became less connected. 

These same teens also tended to have more behavior problems. This means they might be more aggressive, have trouble paying attention, or be very hyper. It's like a messy room – when the DMN isn't well-connected, things can get a bit chaotic, leading to difficult behaviors. As one of the main researchers said, how long and how well teens sleep is directly linked to these brain connections, which then predict behavior problems. 

The default mode network (DMN) is really important for things like thinking about yourself, understanding your own feelings, and being creative. When this network is working well, people can connect ideas better and even understand what others are thinking.

Teenage years are a super important time for the brain to grow and develop. It's like building the foundation of a house – if you don't build it right, the rest of the house might have problems. And sleep is absolutely critical for this brain development. It helps all those brain connections form properly and get stronger. The sad truth is, many teenagers simply aren't getting the good quality sleep they need. 

<h2>Disparities in Sleep and Behavior </h2>

The study also noticed that some groups of teenagers were more likely to get less sleep and have more behavioral problems. This included boys, older teenagers, and kids from certain racial minority groups. This finding suggests that there might be different factors at play that make it harder for these particular groups of teens to get enough sleep, and it highlights a need for more support for them. 

It really emphasizes that we need to make sure teenagers get enough good sleep. It's not just about feeling rested; it's about helping their brains develop properly and keeping them mentally healthy. 

teen health

johns hopkins medicine

teen cognitive development

lack of sleep and teens

sleeplessness can alter teen brains

Default Mode Network and Behavior for teens

Parents of teens are always complaining about the amount of sleep their kids get. No matter how many hours teens sleep, they always seem tired. However, that is not a coincidence. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, teens experience a natural shift in circadian rhythm, making it difficult to fall asleep at their usual time. They also need nine or more hours of sleep every day. That is because they are at a crucial stage of cognitive development, a stage of cognitive maturation, which is supported by appropriate amounts of sleep. So, what happens when they do not sleep as much? Does it hinder their cognitive development? A new study reveals that sleep deprivation in teenagers can lead to significant brain changes, potentially increasing impulsive and aggressive behaviors. Published on June 13th in the journal Brain and Behavior, the findings highlight the critical role sleep plays in adolescent brain development and mental well-being. Default Mode Network and Behavior This study looked at how sleep affects a special part of the brain called the "default mode network" (DMN). Think of the DMN as your brain's "idle mode" or "daydreaming mode." It's active when you're just relaxing, not trying to focus on something specific, maybe thinking about yourself or letting your mind wander. The researchers found that when teens didn't get enough sleep, the different parts of this daydreaming network became less connected. These same teens also tended to have more behavior problems. This means they might be more aggressive, have trouble paying attention, or be very hyper. It's like a messy room – when the DMN isn't well-connected, things can get a bit chaotic, leading to difficult behaviors. As one of the main researchers said, how long and how well teens sleep is directly linked to these brain connections, which then predict behavior problems. Importance of Adolescent Sleep The default mode network (DMN) is really important for things like thinking about yourself, understanding your own feelings, and being creative. When this network is working well, people can connect ideas better and even understand what others are thinking.Teenage years are a super important time for the brain to grow and develop. It's like building the foundation of a house – if you don't build it right, the rest of the house might have problems. And sleep is absolutely critical for this brain development. It helps all those brain connections form properly and get stronger. The sad truth is, many teenagers simply aren't getting the good quality sleep they need. Disparities in Sleep and Behavior The study also noticed that some groups of teenagers were more likely to get less sleep and have more behavioral problems. This included boys, older teenagers, and kids from certain racial minority groups. This finding suggests that there might be different factors at play that make it harder for these particular groups of teens to get enough sleep, and it highlights a need for more support for them. It really emphasizes that we need to make sure teenagers get enough good sleep. It's not just about feeling rested; it's about helping their brains develop properly and keeping them mentally healthy. 

lack of sleep can alter a teen's brain and also cause behavioral issues: study

What all must you know before you donate blood?

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On <span>World Blood Donor Day</span>, observed every year on June 14, the spotlight turns to the vital act of <span>blood donation</span>—an effort that saves millions of lives each year. Yet, many potential donors still hold back due to confusion or misinformation. To help clear the air, we spoke to Dr. Sangeeta Pathak, Director and Head of Transfusion Medicine at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, about the do’s and don’ts of blood donation. Here’s what we learned.

<strong>ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/who-can-donate-blood-to-whom-article-151105034" data-type="tilCustomLink">Who Can Donate Blood To Whom?</a></strong>

<h4>Can Women Donate Blood During Their Period?</h4>

This is one of the most common concerns, especially among first-time female donors. According to Dr. Pathak, as per the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, women are advised not to donate during their menstruation, particularly during the 4-5 days of active bleeding. However, they are completely eligible to donate at any other time of the month if they are in good health.

<h4>What If You’re Recovering from Illness or Taking Medication?</h4>

Health is key when it comes to blood donation. “A person should be completely healthy and free from fever or illness at the time of donation,” says Dr. Pathak. Moreover, certain medications can lead to deferral, and there is a comprehensive list maintained under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. So if you’re on a prescribed course, it’s best to consult a doctor or the blood bank before donating.

<h4>Alcohol, Smoking and Blood Donation—What’s the Deal?</h4>

While an occasional drinker may not be entirely disqualified, heavy alcohol consumption is a red flag. “Anyone who is under the influence or shows signs of intoxication should not be donating blood,” Dr. Pathak warns. Ideally, toxic substances like alcohol or nicotine should be avoided for several hours before donation, and if there is an emergency and the only available donor has consumed alcohol recently, it's safest to look for another eligible person.

<h4>Basic Eligibility: Age, Weight, and Health</h4>

<ul><li>To donate blood in India, you must be:</li><li>18 to 65 years old (first-time donors should not be older than 60)</li><li>Weigh at least 45 kg (for 350 ml of whole blood)</li><li>Hemoglobin levels of at least 12.5 gm/dl</li></ul>

For apheresis (platelet or plasma donation), the minimum weight is 50 kg, and the age range is 18 to 60 years. Chronic illnesses and poor general health are automatic grounds for deferral.

<h4>Tattoos and Piercings: Are You Temporarily Ineligible?</h4>

Yes. If you’ve recently had a tattoo or body piercing, you’ll need to wait 12 months before you can donate blood. This is a precautionary step to ensure there’s no risk of transmitting infections.

<strong>TO KNOW MORE, READ: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/how-long-after-a-tattoo-or-piercing-can-i-donate-blood-article-151210770" data-type="tilCustomLink">How Long After a Tattoo or Piercing Can I Donate Blood?</a></strong>

<h4>What to Eat (or Avoid) Before and After Donation</h4>

A proper meal before donating is important, but fasting is not advised. “The donor should not be on an empty stomach, and their last meal should be at least four hours before donation,” explains Dr. Pathak. Avoid fatty foods before donating as they can interfere with blood testing. After donation, staying hydrated and consuming a light snack helps restore energy levels quickly.

Women, especially, often have concerns about low hemoglobin levels. If your levels are below 12.5 gm/dl, you won’t be allowed to donate—for your own safety. It’s best to get your iron levels checked regularly if you plan to be a repeat donor.

<strong>YOU MAY WANT TO READ: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/can-you-have-anemia-by-donating-blood-article-151110665" data-type="tilCustomLink">Can You Have Anemia By Donating Blood?</a></strong>

Blood donation is a safe, simple, and generous act that can make a life-or-death difference. On this World Blood Donor Day, let’s pledge to stay informed and encourage more people to donate responsibly. As Dr. Pathak says, “With the right awareness and care, we can all contribute to building a healthier, more compassionate society.”

blood donation rules

health and wellness

blood donation

world blood donor day

can you donate blood on period

can you donate blood on medications

can you donate blood after getting a tattoo

On World Blood Donor Day, observed every year on June 14, the spotlight turns to the vital act of blood donation—an effort that saves millions of lives each year. Yet, many potential donors still hold back due to confusion or misinformation. To help clear the air, we spoke to Dr. Sangeeta Pathak, Director and Head of Transfusion Medicine at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, about the do’s and don’ts of blood donation. Here’s what we learned.ALSO READ: Who Can Donate Blood To Whom?Can Women Donate Blood During Their Period?This is one of the most common concerns, especially among first-time female donors. According to Dr. Pathak, as per the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, women are advised not to donate during their menstruation, particularly during the 4-5 days of active bleeding. However, they are completely eligible to donate at any other time of the month if they are in good health.What If You’re Recovering from Illness or Taking Medication?Health is key when it comes to blood donation. “A person should be completely healthy and free from fever or illness at the time of donation,” says Dr. Pathak. Moreover, certain medications can lead to deferral, and there is a comprehensive list maintained under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. So if you’re on a prescribed course, it’s best to consult a doctor or the blood bank before donating.Alcohol, Smoking and Blood Donation—What’s the Deal?While an occasional drinker may not be entirely disqualified, heavy alcohol consumption is a red flag. “Anyone who is under the influence or shows signs of intoxication should not be donating blood,” Dr. Pathak warns. Ideally, toxic substances like alcohol or nicotine should be avoided for several hours before donation, and if there is an emergency and the only available donor has consumed alcohol recently, it's safest to look for another eligible person.Basic Eligibility: Age, Weight, and HealthTo donate blood in India, you must be:18 to 65 years old (first-time donors should not be older than 60)Weigh at least 45 kg (for 350 ml of whole blood)Hemoglobin levels of at least 12.5 gm/dlFor apheresis (platelet or plasma donation), the minimum weight is 50 kg, and the age range is 18 to 60 years. Chronic illnesses and poor general health are automatic grounds for deferral.Tattoos and Piercings: Are You Temporarily Ineligible?Yes. If you’ve recently had a tattoo or body piercing, you’ll need to wait 12 months before you can donate blood. This is a precautionary step to ensure there’s no risk of transmitting infections.TO KNOW MORE, READ: How Long After a Tattoo or Piercing Can I Donate Blood?What to Eat (or Avoid) Before and After DonationA proper meal before donating is important, but fasting is not advised. “The donor should not be on an empty stomach, and their last meal should be at least four hours before donation,” explains Dr. Pathak. Avoid fatty foods before donating as they can interfere with blood testing. After donation, staying hydrated and consuming a light snack helps restore energy levels quickly.A Note on Low HemoglobinWomen, especially, often have concerns about low hemoglobin levels. If your levels are below 12.5 gm/dl, you won’t be allowed to donate—for your own safety. It’s best to get your iron levels checked regularly if you plan to be a repeat donor.YOU MAY WANT TO READ: Can You Have Anemia By Donating Blood?Blood donation is a safe, simple, and generous act that can make a life-or-death difference. On this World Blood Donor Day, let’s pledge to stay informed and encourage more people to donate responsibly. As Dr. Pathak says, “With the right awareness and care, we can all contribute to building a healthier, more compassionate society.”

world blood donor day 2025: thinking of donating blood? a doctor answers all your doubts

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Tooth disorders led to an average of nearly 1.94 million emergency department (ED) visits each year between 2020 and 2022, according to a recent data brief by the National Center for Health Statistics. The data, drawn from the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey, highlights a significant burden on emergency care systems across the United States.

<h4>Who’s Going to the ER for Tooth Problems?</h4>

The analysis, led by Susan M. Schappert and Dr. Loredana Santo, revealed that adults aged 25 to 34 accounted for the highest proportion of these emergency visits—29.2 percent. While tooth disorders represented 1.4 percent of all ED visits, that translated to about 59.4 visits per 10,000 people annually.

When broken down by race and ethnicity, White non-Hispanic individuals made up the largest share, followed by Black non-Hispanics and Hispanics. Medicaid was noted as the primary expected source of payment, suggesting that many patients with limited access to dental care rely on emergency services for dental issues.

Another notable trend: the prescription of opioids for dental pain relief has dropped significantly. From 2014 to 2016, 38.1 percent of patients were prescribed opioids as the sole form of pain relief. By 2020 to 2022, that figure had fallen to 16.5 percent, indicating a shift in pain management strategies amid growing awareness of the opioid crisis.

Tooth disorders include a range of conditions that affect the teeth, such as:

<ul><li><span rel="noindex">Tooth decay</span> – Damage to the tooth's surface, often leading to cavities</li><li>Abscess – A pus-filled infection, often painful and serious if left untreated</li><li>Impacted teeth – Commonly wisdom teeth that haven’t broken through the gums</li><li>Malocclusion – Misaligned teeth that may affect chewing or speech</li><li>Tooth injuries – Including chipped, cracked, or broken teeth</li></ul>

Tooth disorders can be caused by various factors, including:

<ul><li>Poor oral hygiene, such as not brushing or flossing regularly</li><li>High sugar consumption, which can accelerate decay</li><li>Accidents or injuries</li><li>Genetic conditions or developmental issues</li></ul>

Different tooth problems come with different symptoms, but common warning signs include:

<ul><li>Tooth pain or sensitivity</li><li>Abnormal color or shape of the tooth</li><li>Swelling or pus around the gums</li><li>Worn-down teeth from grinding or misalignment</li></ul>

<h4>Diagnosing and Treating Tooth Disorders</h4>

Dentists typically diagnose tooth disorders through a physical examination, using dental instruments and sometimes X-rays. Depending on the issue, treatments may include:

<ul><li>Fillings for cavities</li><li>Root canals for deeper infections</li><li>Tooth extractions for severely damaged or impacted teeth</li><li>Orthodontic treatment for misalignment</li></ul>

Yes—most tooth disorders are preventable with good oral hygiene. Experts recommend:

<ul><li>Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste</li><li>Flossing or using an interdental cleaner daily</li><li>Limiting sugary foods and drinks</li><li>Avoiding tobacco products</li><li>Seeing a dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings</li></ul>

Dental care often gets sidelined, especially for those with limited access to regular services. Yet, as the numbers show, ignoring tooth problems can lead to costly emergency visits and long-term health risks. Promoting awareness and access to preventive care is key to reducing this burden—not just on individuals, but on emergency care systems too.

dental health

us news

tooth decay

dental disorders

Tooth disorders led to an average of nearly 1.94 million emergency department (ED) visits each year between 2020 and 2022, according to a recent data brief by the National Center for Health Statistics. The data, drawn from the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey, highlights a significant burden on emergency care systems across the United States.Who’s Going to the ER for Tooth Problems?The analysis, led by Susan M. Schappert and Dr. Loredana Santo, revealed that adults aged 25 to 34 accounted for the highest proportion of these emergency visits—29.2 percent. While tooth disorders represented 1.4 percent of all ED visits, that translated to about 59.4 visits per 10,000 people annually.When broken down by race and ethnicity, White non-Hispanic individuals made up the largest share, followed by Black non-Hispanics and Hispanics. Medicaid was noted as the primary expected source of payment, suggesting that many patients with limited access to dental care rely on emergency services for dental issues.Another notable trend: the prescription of opioids for dental pain relief has dropped significantly. From 2014 to 2016, 38.1 percent of patients were prescribed opioids as the sole form of pain relief. By 2020 to 2022, that figure had fallen to 16.5 percent, indicating a shift in pain management strategies amid growing awareness of the opioid crisis.What Are Tooth Disorders?Tooth disorders include a range of conditions that affect the teeth, such as:Tooth decay – Damage to the tooth's surface, often leading to cavitiesAbscess – A pus-filled infection, often painful and serious if left untreatedImpacted teeth – Commonly wisdom teeth that haven’t broken through the gumsMalocclusion – Misaligned teeth that may affect chewing or speechTooth injuries – Including chipped, cracked, or broken teethWhat Causes These Problems?Tooth disorders can be caused by various factors, including:Poor oral hygiene, such as not brushing or flossing regularlyHigh sugar consumption, which can accelerate decayAccidents or injuriesGenetic conditions or developmental issuesSymptoms to Watch Out ForDifferent tooth problems come with different symptoms, but common warning signs include:Tooth pain or sensitivityAbnormal color or shape of the toothSwelling or pus around the gumsWorn-down teeth from grinding or misalignmentDiagnosing and Treating Tooth DisordersDentists typically diagnose tooth disorders through a physical examination, using dental instruments and sometimes X-rays. Depending on the issue, treatments may include:Fillings for cavitiesRoot canals for deeper infectionsTooth extractions for severely damaged or impacted teethOrthodontic treatment for misalignmentCan They Be Prevented?Yes—most tooth disorders are preventable with good oral hygiene. Experts recommend:Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpasteFlossing or using an interdental cleaner dailyLimiting sugary foods and drinksAvoiding tobacco productsSeeing a dentist regularly for check-ups and cleaningsWhy This MattersDental care often gets sidelined, especially for those with limited access to regular services. Yet, as the numbers show, ignoring tooth problems can lead to costly emergency visits and long-term health risks. Promoting awareness and access to preventive care is key to reducing this burden—not just on individuals, but on emergency care systems too.

tooth troubles sent nearly 2 million americans to year between 2020 to 2022: report

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