GPT and Hypertension: ALT flare was associated with a significantly increased risk of HCC compared to the normal group, which remained statistically significant after adjusting for age, gender, baseline cirrhosis and diabetes/hypertension (crude HR 2.96, 95%CI 1.70–5.17 and adjusted HR 2.55, 95%CI 1.45–4.50, respectively) (Table 3).