Univariate analysis to find the best predictor of HCC occurrence showed initial IFN response (P = 0.013), development of liver cirrhosis within a year of follow-up (P = 0.0006), and the 12 year annual average ALT activity (P = 0.0034), to be significantly related to HCC development. The gene discussed is IFNA1; the disease is hepatocellular carcinoma.