Some cases of cirrhosis cannot be prevented. However, many cases may be prevented by:

• Avoiding alcohol or drinking in moderation. Alcohol is the leading cause of cirrhosis in the United States. Those who avoid alcohol, particularly those with a family history of alcoholism, may prevent cirrhosis.
  
  
• Protecting against hepatitis B and hepatitis C. The best way to prevent contracting hepatitis B is to receive a vaccination for it. There is no vaccination for hepatitis C, but people can reduce the risk of contracting it by using a condom during sexual intercourse. About half of new cases of hepatitis C are caused by contaminated drug paraphernalia, so drug users should not share needles or other drug paraphernalia.
  
  
• Avoiding excessive dietary fat and obesity. On rare occasions, fat and obesity can result in an inflammatory change in the liver and cirrhosis can develop.