In short
Early liver cancer often causes no symptoms. Later signs include yellow skin or eyes, pain or swelling in the upper-right tummy, weight loss, pale poo and dark pee. About 6,300 people are diagnosed in the UK each year. Overall survival is low because many cases are found late. Hepatitis B, hepatitis C, alcohol and fatty liver are the main preventable causes.
Primary liver cancer starts in the liver. Secondary liver cancer has spread from elsewhere and is managed differently. This silo is about primary disease.
Which symptoms should you report?
Jaundice and unexplained weight loss need a prompt GP visit. Do not wait for pain.
- Yellow skin or whites of the eyes
- Pain or swelling in the upper-right tummy
- Weight loss or loss of appetite
- Pale poo and dark pee
- Deep tiredness without a clear cause
Who should be on surveillance scans?
People with cirrhosis are often offered regular ultrasound because their risk of hepatocellular carcinoma is higher. Ask your liver clinic if you are in a surveillance programme.
Help a patient afford cancer care
Gifts go to the Cancer Emergency Appeal’s wider fund for patients who cannot pay. They do not buy a guaranteed treatment or result.
Donate to cancer careCan liver cancer be prevented?
Hepatitis B vaccination, treatment of hepatitis C, drinking less alcohol, and treating fatty liver disease all lower risk. That is prevention, not a screening test for everyone.
Key takeaways
- Early liver cancer is often silent.
- Jaundice and unexplained weight loss need a GP.
- Hepatitis, alcohol and fatty liver drive most risk.
Care like this is out of reach for millions
The diagnosis, screening and treatment described here are routine in the UK. In Pakistan, Indonesia and Malaysia, poverty can put them out of reach. The Cancer Emergency Appeal raises funds towards clinically recommended care for patients who cannot pay; gifts go to the wider fund and do not buy a guaranteed treatment or result.
Frequently asked questions
Is jaundice always cancer?
No. Gallstones and hepatitis are common causes. Cancer is why it is still checked the same day if you are unwell.
Does a normal liver blood test rule cancer out?
No. Scans are what find a mass.
Do you fund liver cancer treatment overseas?
When partner hospitals can deliver the recommended treatment for a patient who cannot pay.
Editorial summary of published sources. A named oncology clinician has not signed off this guide. Use it to prepare questions for your healthcare team, not to diagnose symptoms or choose treatment. Editorial responsibility: Kaiser Khan. Updated 4 October 2026.
What are the sources for this guide?
Follow the original guidance for its evidence, dates and limitations. General background references are not a clinical review of this page.