Hepatitis-C-Related Hepatocellular Carcinoma, Still a Relevant Etiology beyond a Hepatitis C Infection Cure.

Simple Summary: This study investigates the etiological agents of de novo hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in a recent period, considering the evolving landscape of viral hepatitis prevention, therapeutic advancements, and the rising challenges of alcohol consumption and obesity. Analyzing 352 patients diagnosed with de novo HCC, the primary underlying causes were alcohol-related liver disease (33.3%) and hepatitis C (30.7%). Metabolic-dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (12.2%), mixed ALD and hepatitis C (8.2%), and chronic hepatitis B (6%) were also identified. Variations were observed in patient demographics, BCLC stage, and cirrhosis prevalence concerning HCC etiology. Despite improved antiviral therapy accessibility, HCV and alcoholic liver disease remain dominant contributors to HCC. Background: In the past decades, global changes, including hepatitis B vaccination, hepatitis B and C antiviral therapies, and the increasing prevalence of steatotic liver disease, have influenced the landscape of liver cancer etiologies. Methods: We performed a retrospective study focused on the etiological factors of de novo hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) diagnoses in an academic center between 2019 and 2022. Results: Among 352 consecutive patients with HCC, alcohol-related liver disease was the predominant etiology (33.3%), followed by hepatitis C (HCV) infection (30.7%). Significant associations were found between HCC etiology and patient demographics, BCLC stage at diagnosis, and cirrhosis prevalence. Conclusions: Whereas accessibility to antiviral therapy is granted, HCV infection remains as one of the main HCC etiologies. MASLD-related HCC, although growing globally, is not as relevant in our area. Strong public policies need to be implemented to prevent alcohol consumption, the main etiology of liver disease and liver cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]