Personalised treatments designed to fight cancer while minimising side effects.
Liver cancer occurs when malignant (cancerous) cells form in the tissues of the liver. The liver is one of the body’s most vital organs, responsible for detoxifying harmful substances, producing bile for digestion, and storing nutrients. Primary liver cancer begins in the liver itself (most commonly hepatocellular carcinoma), while secondary or metastatic liver cancer originates in another part of the body and spreads to the liver.
According to GLOBOCAN 2022, liver cancer is a serious health concern in Singapore. It is the 4th most common cancer in men and accounts for a significant proportion of cancer-related deaths. In 2022, there were approximately 1,442 new cases and 1,353 deaths recorded in Singapore. The high mortality reflects the tendency for liver cancer to be diagnosed at advanced stages, where curative treatment is often not possible. Chronic hepatitis B and C infections remain major contributing factors in the region.
In the early stages, liver cancer may not cause symptoms. As the disease progresses, common symptoms include:
Diagnosis typically involves a combination of:
The most common type, arising from liver cells
Originates in the bile ducts
Rare forms of liver cancer
Liver cancer staging considers tumour size, spread within the liver, invasion into blood vessels, and spread to distant organs. Stages range from Stage I (localised) to Stage IV (advanced/metastatic).
Treatment options depend on the stage of disease, liver function, and overall health. They include:
Each treatment option has its own side effects. Surgery may carry risks such as bleeding and infection, while systemic therapies and chemotherapy can cause fatigue, diarrhoea, or skin reactions. Your doctor will discuss the risks and benefits of each treatment and tailor a plan to your needs.
At OncoCare Singapore, our multidisciplinary team includes medical oncologists specialising in gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary cancers, liver surgeons experienced in advanced and minimally invasive procedures, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, oncology nurses, dietitians, and psycho-oncology counsellors. Together, they design an individualised treatment plan for every patient.
If you have risk factors or symptoms that may suggest liver cancer, seeking early consultation with our specialists is important. Timely diagnosis offers the best chance for effective treatment and improved outcomes.
