Factors Associated with Hepatocellular Carcinoma among Patients Receiving Treatment at the National Cancer Institute, Thailand: A Case-Control Study

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major public health concern in Thailand, ranking as the leading cause of cancer-related mortality in Thai people.  This study aimed to identify various risk factors for HCC among patients treated at the National Cancer Institute (NCI) in Thailand. Methods: The retrospective case-control study was conducted using secondary data sources from the Liver Cancer Prevention and Control Research project which was carried out at NCI from 2008 to 2010. A total of 200 cases diagnosed with HCC and 300 healthy controls were included in this study. Univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression models were used to identify independent risk factors associated with HCC development. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated to quantify the strength and significance of these associations. Results: Our analysis showed that the mean ages of cases and controls were 52.2±7.7 years and 53.5±8.2 years respectively. After adjustment for gender, marital status, education, and income, the multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed a statistically significant association between HCC and several other factors. These included hepatitis B virus infection (OR 5.7, 95% CI 2.8-11.6), hepatitis C virus infection (OR 8.2, 95% CI 1.1-60.1) liver cirrhosis (OR 15.7, 95% CI 3.9-63.4), diabetes (OR 3.5, 95% CI 1.5-8.2), alcohol consumption (OR 3.2, 95% CI 1.7-5.9), and smoking status (OR 2.5, 95% CI 1.2-4.9). Conclusions: Our findings contribute to the existing knowledge regarding risk factors for HCC among Thai people, particularly highlighting the emerging evidence that associates diabetes with HCC. This study provided baseline information for improving knowledge focused on preventing HCC and avoiding associated risk factors.