Did you know that alpha-fetoprotein is a key indicator for liver cancer detection?

Mr. Zhang is an ordinary office worker with a busy work schedule and a fast-paced life. Although he often feels tired, he always thinks it is due to work pressure. Until one day, he was informed that his alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) index was abnormally high during a physical examination organized by his company. This result forced him to face a grim reality: the risk of liver cancer.

Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a protein produced by the liver and yolk sac during the embryonic period. Normally, the level of AFP in adults is very low. However, when liver cells become cancerous, the level of AFP may increase significantly. AFP is widely used for early screening and diagnosis of liver cancer.

Many people, like Mr. Zhang, usually do not pay attention to their body signals until they discover problems during physical examinations. In fact, the liver is called a "dumb organ" because it often has no obvious symptoms in the early stages of disease. Even if 70% of liver cells are damaged, many people still do not feel any discomfort. Regularly checking the AFP index is essential for early detection of liver cancer.

Mr. Zhang's story reminds us that the cost of neglecting our health can be huge. Even without obvious symptoms, the health of the liver may be quietly deteriorating. Regular physical examinations, especially checking the AFP index, can help us detect potential liver problems early so that timely treatment measures can be taken.

The test of alpha-fetoprotein is not a panacea, but it is indeed an important reference indicator in the current liver cancer screening. Regular testing of AFP is particularly important for high-risk groups such as those with a family history of liver disease, long-term alcoholism, hepatitis B or hepatitis C. Doctors usually combine imaging examinations (such as B-ultrasound, CT, etc.) and other biomarkers (such as liver function indicators) to comprehensively evaluate the health of the liver.

After learning about the importance of AFP, Mr. Zhang began to actively cooperate with doctors for further examinations and treatments. Fortunately, his liver cancer was discovered early, and after a series of treatments, the disease was effectively controlled. This experience made him deeply realize that health is priceless, and regular physical examinations and paying attention to body signals are the key to preventing major diseases.

In order to better prevent liver cancer, in addition to regular AFP testing, we should also develop healthy living habits. Quit smoking and drinking to reduce damage to the liver. Maintain a balanced diet, avoid high-fat and high-sugar foods, and control your weight. Regular exercise is also an important measure to maintain liver health.

Mr. Zhang's story once again reminds us that liver health cannot be neglected. No matter how busy our lives are, we should take time to pay attention to our physical condition. Regular physical examinations, especially testing for alpha-fetoprotein, can help us detect potential health problems early so that we can take proactive measures to deal with them. I hope everyone can have a healthy body and stay away from the threat of liver cancer.