70-Fold Elevated Risk Of Hepatocellular Carcinoma In Those With Family History And Hepatitis B Or C Markers

A family history of liver cancer is reported to increase risk of developing hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC), independent of hepatitis according to findings published in the May issue of Hepatology, a journal of the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases. The study also shows 70-fold elevated risk of HCC in those with liver cancer in the family and markers for hepatitis B (HBV) or hepatitis C (HCV). Liver cancer ranks sixth in incidence and the third cause of mortality worldwide.

Molecular Probes Identify Changes In Fibronectin That May Lead To Disease

Fibronectin plays a major role in wound healing and embryonic development. The protein, which is located in the extracellular matrix of cells, has also been linked to pathological conditions including cancer and fibrosis. During physiological processes, fibronectin fibers are believed to experience mechanical forces that strain the fibers and cause dramatic structural modifications that change their biological activity. While understanding the role of fibronectin strain events in development and disease progression is becoming increasingly important, detecting and interrogating these events is difficult.

Healthy Living For Cancer Survivors

The American Cancer Society (ACS) released new guidelines today, with advice especially aimed at cancer survivors seeking help about avoiding the return of the disease, or hoping to protect family members from their own plight. The ACS recommendations are pretty straight forward, although many of us find it hard to implement and maintain them. Volumes of research has shown that physically active, non smokers, who maintain a healthy lifestyle and eat a diet of more fruits, vegetables and grains, are far less likely to suffer from cancer than those with less healthy lifestyles.