The rising incidence of hepatocellular cancer (HCC) is a cause for concern in all parts of the world today. Epidemiologists predict that HCC will become endemic because of the large numbers of carriers of hepatitis viruses that lead to the chronic liver diseases, which, in turn, are predisposing factors for the development of HCC. The eradication of HCC thus becomes an urgent priority. Against this background, Progress in HCC Treatment was the focus of the Yamaguchi (Japan) Symposium held in December 1998. Japanese hepatologists, unsurpassed in the diagnosis and treatment of HCC, were joined by specialists from other parts of the world to exchange the latest information about HCC treatment. Topics included percutaneous ablation of HCC, ultrasonographic screening for early detection, surgical treatment, and prevention by fibrosuppression. The papers collected in this volume provide a wealth of information on HCC for hepatologists, physicians, and others in the field.
