NEW research has shown that a simple blood-based test could help identify liver cancer at an earlier stage, raising the potential for improved survival through earlier diagnosis and treatment.
Late liver cancer diagnosis remains a major challenge
Hepatocellular carcinoma is one of the leading causes of cancer-related death worldwide. Outcomes remain poor largely because many cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, when curative treatment options are limited. Current surveillance strategies rely on imaging and biomarkers, which may miss early disease, particularly in patients with chronic liver disease.
Improving early detection is therefore a key priority in hepatology.
Study approach and key findings
Researchers evaluated a blood-based assay designed to detect molecular signals associated with early liver cancer in people at increased risk, including those with cirrhosis or chronic viral hepatitis. The test analysed circulating biomarkers linked to tumour development and liver injury.
The study found that the blood test identified a substantial proportion of early-stage liver cancers that were not detected through routine surveillance alone. Sensitivity was highest when the test was combined with existing imaging approaches, suggesting an additive benefit rather than replacement of current pathways.
Performance across risk groups
Importantly, the test performed consistently across different underlying causes of liver disease, including metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease and viral hepatitis. This is clinically relevant given the changing global profile of liver cancer risk, with metabolic liver disease becoming increasingly common.
False positive rates were low, and the test was well tolerated, supporting its potential use in routine surveillance settings.
Implications for hepatology practice
Earlier detection of liver cancer is associated with increased eligibility for curative treatments such as resection, ablation, or transplantation. A reliable blood-based test could improve access to surveillance, particularly for patients who struggle to attend regular imaging appointments or live in areas with limited specialist services.
Clinicians noted that blood tests may also improve adherence to surveillance programmes by reducing the burden on patients and healthcare systems.
Next steps and future research
The authors highlighted the need for prospective studies to confirm whether earlier detection using blood-based testing leads to improved survival and cost effectiveness. Integration into existing surveillance programmes will require careful evaluation of testing intervals, patient selection, and health system capacity.
If validated, blood-based detection could represent a significant advance in efforts to reduce liver cancer mortality.
Reference
National Cancer Institute. Early detection of hepatocellular carcinoma using blood-based biomarkers. 2026. Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/types/liver/research/early-detection. Last accessed: 21 January 2026.
