Translational strategies for cancer prevention in liver.
Unlike many other types of human cancer, the aetiology of liver cancer is well understood. Infection with hepatitis viruses, coupled with dietary exposure to the fungal toxin aflatoxin, increases the risk of the disease. Although primary prevention, based on vaccination and avoiding exposure to these agents, is an appealing option, such strategies will require considerable investment of time and resources to be successful. In the developing world--where the burden of liver cancer is highest--immediate, practical and economical approaches are essential. So, targeted chemoprevention might be most appropriate for the present generation of individuals at risk.
Kensler
Thomas W
TW
Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, USA. tkensler@jhsph.edu
Qian
Geng-Sun
GS
Chen
Jian-Guo
JG
Groopman
John D
JD
D000348:Aflatoxins / Q000633:toxicity; D018890:Chemoprevention; D006801:Humans; D008113:Liver Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000517:prevention & control*
D000348:Aflatoxins