SUGGESTIONS FOR NEW CASES OF HBV AND HCV: EXPLORING THEIR IMPACT ON HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA INCIDENCE

Abstract

Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC), the predominant form of liver dysplasia, results from genetic mutations and represents the majority of primary liver neoplasms, with a global incidence of between 500,000 and 1 million cases per year. Chronic infection by the hepatitis B (HBV) and C (HCV) viruses is responsible for 60-70% of cases. This study seeks to understand the relationship between viral hepatitis and HCC. To this end, a systematic review was conducted in the SciELO, Google Scholar, Pubmed and VHL databases, using the descriptors: "Carcinoma, Hepatocellular" AND "Hepatitis B" OR "Hepatitis C". Of the 97,544 articles found, 17 met the selection criteria, published between 2013 and 2024, available in full and related to the research. HCC, which originates from genetic mutations, causes uncontrolled proliferation of hepatocytes and is influenced by factors such as cirrhosis, alcoholism, fatty liver disease, family history and HBV and HCV infections. These viruses trigger hepatocarcinogenesis, promoting cell proliferation and inducing inflammation that damages DNA. The high mortality associated with HCC stems from high incidence rates, tumor resistance, advanced liver complications and late diagnosis. Early diagnosis is crucial, with the American Association for the Study of Liver Disease recommending screening in patients with cirrhosis and in Asian men over 40 and Asian women over 50. Treatment includes surgical resection, liver transplantation and antiviral therapies, especially Direct Acting Antivirals (DAAs) for hepatitis C. Prevention involves vaccination against HBV, especially in newborns and individuals at increased risk of infection, with the aim of improving patient survival and quality of life. Hepatitis B and C are strongly linked to HCC, highlighting the need for scientific studies to clarify controversies and promote the health of the population.