The corresponding results of AFP were: HCC versus chronic hepatitis: AUC (95%CI) 0.665 (0.599–0.726), sensitivity 64.7%, specificity 72.3% (Fig. 3A); HCC versus cirrhosis: AUC (95%CI) 0.679 (0.603–0.749), sensitivity 63.2%, specificity 70.7% (Fig. 3B); and HCC versus chronic HBV infection without HCC [AUC (95%CI) 0.670 (0.616–0.721), sensitivity 64.7%, specificity 70.5%, Fig. 3C, Table S8). Here, AFP is linked to chronic hepatitis.