Hepatocellular cancer (HCC) is the most frequent primary cancer of the liver. This continues to be a major health problem in Singapore. Though the third most frequent cancer diagnosed in Singaporean males constituting to 8.1% of new cancers; it is the second leading killer. Singapore has the dubious distinction of having higher rates than the West. This is in big part due to the endemicity of Hepatitis B virus in our local population.
This truly is a cancer requiring a multidisciplinary approach in its prevention, detection, cure and palliation. Due to its wide prevalence health professionals in all fields are touched in some way with this cancer. In this issue we present a succinct but multidimensional look at this tumour from its etiopathogenesis to screening strategies for early detection, diagnostic modalities to curative and palliative treatment strategies. We hope all readers find something new and benefit from this comprehensive account of HCC.
Dr Sandeep
K Rajan
Editor, Cancer Update
