Regular clinical assessment using α-fetoprotein (AFP) and ultrasonography every 6 to 12 months in high-risk subjects with HBV and HCV infection, cirrhosis and alcohol drinkers should be considered in high-risk countries for the early diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), when lesions are small and easier to treat with improved survival. Here, AFP is linked to hepatocellular carcinoma.