Primary Liver Cancer Trends Worldwide and in China: Analysis of GLOBOCAN 2022 Data and Disease Management Implications

Primary liver cancer remains a significant global public health challenge, characterized by persistently high incidence and mortality. This review synthesizes current epidemiological data to analyze trends and etiological shifts, with particular emphasis on China, which bears over 40% of the global burden. Findings highlight a transition in dominant risk factors from viral hepatitis to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), alongside persistent threats from aflatoxin exposure and lifestyle behaviors. Evidence-based prevention strategies, including universal hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination, antiviral therapy expansion, aflatoxin control, and early metabolic intervention, are critical to reducing disease burden. The integration of artificial intelligence into screening and management represents a promising advancement. A multi-faceted approach combining vaccination, surveillance, lifestyle modification, and technological innovation is essential for effective global liver cancer control.