By: Shubh Goel, VP, US Franchise Head, Immuno-Oncology and GI Tumors
At AstraZeneca, our patients are at the heart of what we do. This patient-first mindset goes beyond developing treatments for our patients with liver cancer – the fastest-rising cause of cancer-related deaths in the US and the sixth most commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide, affecting approximately 41,000 people every year.1-3 For us, learning from—and listening to—our patients is one of the most impactful ways we can serve people living with a liver cancer diagnosis. Partnering with patient advocacy groups who serve as a trusted resource for patients is critical to better serve those affected by liver cancer and their loved ones.
During Liver Cancer Awareness Month, our partners’ efforts elevate important perspectives within the liver cancer community. These efforts are instrumental in helping to understand the challenges patients face and for identifying opportunities to improve patient care. These include:
- The American Liver Foundation’s (ALF’s) Think Liver, Think Life campaign aims to ensure every American understands their risk for liver disease, receives the appropriate screening and care coordination, and feels well informed and supported throughout their liver journey. Think Liver, Think Life is reaching thousands with liver health awareness, education events and local screenings. Find out what is going on in a state near you, here.
- Global Liver Institute’s (GLI’s) #OctoberIs4Livers campaign is dedicated to public awareness, policy, and highlighting clinical practice needs to prevent and manage liver cancer, while educating and empowering those living with and impacted by liver cancer. The #OctoberIs4Livers campaign drives equity by connecting with diverse communities to extend awareness of liver cancer to as many communities as possible. Listen to GLI’s conversations with patients and physicians discussing timely liver cancer topics.
- Blue Faery’s Love Your Liver campaign which brings to light the severe disparities in liver cancer and liver disease for Black, Hispanic and Asian Americans, and aims to spread awareness and increase prevention for liver cancer. Watch their educational videos to learn more about liver disease.
Together, let's raise awareness of liver cancer so we can eliminate the barriers to detection, diagnosis and treatment, and make a meaningful difference for patients and their loved ones.
References:
- National Cancer Institute. Liver Cancer Causes, Risk Factors, and Prevention. Accessed October 2023. Available at http://www.cancer.gov/types/liver/what-is-liver-cancer/causes-risk-factors.
- Siegel RL, Miller KD, Fuchs HE, Jemal A. Cancer statistics, 2022. CA Cancer J Clin. 2022;72(1):7-33.
- ASCO. Liver Cancer – Introduction. Accessed July 2023. Available at: https://www.cancer.net/cancer-types/liver-cancer/view-all.
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