AFP and hepatocellular carcinoma: For many decades, IFN‐based regimens had been the standard care for treating HCV infection and reducing the risk of HCC development.9, 10, 11 Risk factors for HCC are old age, advanced liver fibrosis, male sex, post‐IFN α‐fetoprotein (AFP) levels, glucose metabolism disorders, lipid metabolism disorders, and alcohol intake.12