Beneficial and detrimental effects of natural dietary products on the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma, and their roles in its management

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common solid malignancy and a leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. The mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis and development of HCC are complex and heterogeneous. Although mainly related to hepatitis B and C chronic infection; HCC may also arise from diet-associated conditions such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. Furthermore, toxins and nutrients such as mycotoxins and alcohol have an established role in the pathogenesis of chronic liver diseases, whereas specific diet patterns or foods have been associated with a reduction in HCC risk. The aim of this review is to provide a thorough overview of the clinically relevant effects - either beneficial or detrimental - of natural products consumed by humans on HCC risk and management.

Keywords

Hepatocellular carcinoma / natural products / diet / dietary supplements

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