This is an important question, and the numbers vary across studies. Research shows that people with PBC have about a 4% chance of developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common type of liver cancer, over a 10-year period. Across different studies, rates range from 0.7% to 16%.
To put that in perspective, liver Show Full Answer
This is an important question, and the numbers vary across studies. Research shows that people with PBC have about a 4% chance of developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common type of liver cancer, over a 10-year period. Across different studies, rates range from 0.7% to 16%.
To put that in perspective, liver cancer affects only about 0.02% of the general population — so the risk for people with PBC is notably higher. Having cirrhosis is the most significant risk factor. People with PBC who have developed cirrhosis are more likely to develop HCC than those without it.
Other factors that can raise the risk include:
- Being older
- Being male
- Having more advanced stages of PBC
- Not responding to treatments like ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA)
The good news is that treating PBC early may help slow progression to cirrhosis, and some studies suggest UDCA may also help lower cancer risk. If cirrhosis is already present, screening for liver cancer every six months is recommended.
May 4
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