New liver cancer guideline released

The latest version of the clinical guideline for liver cancer diagnosis and treatment was released by the National Health Commission in Shanghai on Saturday.

The guideline standardizes and regulates treatment and direct use of new therapies.

Dr Fan Jia, president of Zhongshan Hospital said, "Diagnosis, treatment and prevention of liver cancer has developed quickly in recent years, especially diagnosis, which is more precise and more accurate. There are also new achievements in precision medicine, immunotherapy and targeted treatment. The latest version includes new diagnosis and treatments to regulate and ensure patient safety,” he said.

Liver cancer is the second most prevalent cancer killer in the world, with China home to almost half of liver cancer cases, with relatively high mortality, related to the prevalence of hepatitis B in China.

Regular diagnosis and treatment are the key for patient survival. However, the five-year survival for liver cancer patients in China is only 12.5 percent, much lower than in developed countries. 

The new guideline will be more in line with international practice and recognize the effects of evidence-based traditional Chinese medicine in liver cancer treatment.

Zhongshan Hospital / Ti Gong