Following the death of Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo, a UK-based consultant physician has outlined six major causes of liver cancer to educate the public. Ekubo passed away on May 11 after battling the disease, which he had reportedly been fighting since 2024.
Doctor's Response to Ekubo's Death
Dr. Obinna Aligwekwe, a consultant physician based in the United Kingdom, shared his insights on Facebook on May 13, emphasizing that his post was strictly for educational purposes. He clarified that the causes he listed might not be directly linked to Ekubo's case, as many liver cancer patients have no identifiable cause.
Six Major Causes of Liver Cancer
Dr. Aligwekwe highlighted the following six causes:
1. Hepatitis B and C
These viruses are often contracted through blood transfusions, illicit drug use, or intimate contact. While HIV is often stigmatized, hepatitis B and C can cause more severe damage if untreated. The virus itself is not cancer, but long-term infection increases the risk of liver cell damage and cancerous transformation.
2. Alcohol and Tobacco Use
The liver acts as the body's detoxification center. Alcohol and tobacco are processed toxins that overwhelm the liver over time, wearing down specialized cells and increasing the risk of errors during cell reproduction, which can lead to cancer.
3. Aflatoxins
These are toxins produced by fungi that contaminate foods like groundnuts, wheat, soybean, corn, and rice. Tropical countries are more at risk due to warmer climates. Long-term exposure, especially in individuals with chronic hepatitis B or C, significantly increases liver cancer risk.
4. Excess Body Weight
Obesity can lead to fatty infiltration of the liver. While often harmless, it can occasionally overwhelm liver cells and trigger cancerous changes.
5. Vinyl Chloride
This chemical is used in plastic manufacturing and is highly toxic to the liver. Many governments now strictly regulate its use and require liver tests for workers exposed to it.
6. Genetics
Certain inherited genetic disorders, such as alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, tyrosinaemia, acute porphyria, and Wilson's disease, can predispose individuals to liver cancer later in life. This introduces an element of luck, as some people are genetically predisposed.
Related Information
In a related story, another doctor listed seven ways to protect against liver cancer. Meanwhile, a lady named Rejoice shared messages she sent to Alexx Ekubo before his death, expressing concern over his prolonged online absence and praying for him.
