For model 1, the research elements included alpha fetoprotein (AFP) and hepatitis B virus infection status, and the analysis results showed that AFP (HR = 1.412, P = 0.003) was an independent prognostic factor for DSS in patients with cirrhotic HCC; AFP and hepatitis B virus infection status were not prognostic factors for DSS in patients with non-cirrhotic HCC. Here, AFP is linked to hepatocellular carcinoma.