There are some 5,500 new cases of primary liver cancer in the UK each year with HCC (or hepatocellular carcinoma) being the most common form (around 90% of all cases). It is relatively rare in men and women aged under 45.
As with so many diseases and cancers, there are usually no early symptoms of liver cancer (with jaundice regularly being the first and only symptom of liver disease but reflecting advanced disease). Therefore, early detection provides the best opportunity for successful treatment.