The changing epidemiology of primary liver cancer in the 21(st) century.

Primary liver cancer cases and deaths increased by over 55% globally from 2000 to 2023, reversing previous declines and highlighting urgent public health needs.

• Why it matters: Understanding shifting causes and trends in liver cancer is crucial for effective prevention and treatment strategies, especially as traditional viral hepatitis contributions decline while metabolic causes rise.
• What they did: Analysis of the GBD 2023 database examined incidence and mortality trends, revealing a resurgence in hepatitis B and C-related liver cancer since 2020 and rapid growth in metabolic dysfunction-associated liver disease.
• The result: Findings underscore the importance of sustained interventions and targeted research to address regional variations and emerging causes, aiming to reduce future liver cancer burden worldwide.