What carcinogen is associated with the development of Hepatocellular carcinoma and its origin?

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is primarily linked to several risk factors, with one notable carcinogen being aflatoxin B, which is produced by certain molds, such as Aspergillus flavus. This carcinogen can contaminate various agricultural products, particularly nuts and grains, rather than rice, which is identified in another choice.

Aflatoxin B functions as a potent carcinogen that causes DNA damage leading to mutations. The presence of this carcinogen, combined with the infection of hepatitis B virus (HBV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV), significantly increases the risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma. The synergistic effect of aflatoxin with chronic viral hepatitis is particularly dangerous, as both contribute to liver damage and the potential for cancer development.

While arsenic, formaldehyde, and other substances listed may be associated with different types of cancer or can act as carcinogens, they are not specifically linked to hepatocellular carcinoma in the context provided. For instance, arsenic is primarily associated with skin and lung cancers, and formaldehyde is linked with nasopharyngeal cancer and certain types of leukemia, but neither has the same direct association with HCC as aflatoxin B in the context of