Crosstalk Between Hepatitis B Virus and Aflatoxins in Hepa-Tocellular Carcinoma: Epidemiology and Mechanisms

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a significant burden on global public health, being one of the main causes of cancer mortality worldwide. This type of cancer has been closely linked to viral and environmental factors, particularly hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and exposure to aflatoxins, produced by fungi of the genus Aspergillus. Aflatoxins are known carcinogens found in contaminated foods, such as grains and nuts. In the presence of chronic HBV infection, they can function as cofactors in liver carcinogenesis. The synergistic interaction between HBV and aflatoxins is crucial for understanding the molecular complexity of HCC. Multiple studies have shown how the simultaneous presence of these carcinogens significantly increases the risk of developing HCC. The complexity of these mechanisms highlights the urgent need for targeted preventive and therapeutic strategies, ranging from improvements in food safety and aflatoxin regulation to widespread HBV vaccination in high-prevalence areas. Understanding the molecular interactions between these environmental and viral factors is crucial not only for the diagnosis and treatment of HCC, but also for the effective implementation of public health policies that re-duce the global burden of this devastating liver disease. A multifactorial approach is essential to effectively address the increasing prevalence of HCC worldwide and improve health outcomes for affected populations.