Liver cancer

Liver cancer is a cancer that starts in the liver. You might hear it called a primary liver cancer.

Symptoms of liver cancer can include weight loss, jaundice, feeling sick, and a swollen or painful tummy (abdomen). 

You usually start by seeing your GP. They might refer you for tests or to a specialist if you have symptoms that could be caused by liver cancer.

Liver cancer survival depends on many factors including the stage and type of your cancer. 

Your treatment for liver cancer depends on the stage of your cancer and how well your liver is working. The most common treatments are surgery, heat treatment, drug treatments and radiotherapy. 

There are different types of cancer that start in the liver. The most common type is hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). 

The stage of a cancer tells you how big it is and how far it’s spread. It helps your doctor decide which treatment you need.

Research is looking into all aspects of primary liver cancer, including prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

There is support available to help you cope with a diagnosis of liver cancer, life during treatment and life after cancer.  

Liver cancer is uncommon in the UK. Find out about factors that can increase your risk of developing it.