Remembering Dancer and Actor Gregory Hines, Who Passed from Liver Cancer in 2003; What Are the Symptoms of This Disease?

Hines is best known for films like Wolfen, Running Scared, White Nights, The Cotton Club, and later in his career, his stint on NBC’s Will & Grace. Hines appeared in over forty films throughout his long career in show business. But it wasn’t just Hollywood that got to bask in his talent. Hines was a Broadway dancer and actor, and a Tony Award recipient, too. He won a Tony for Jelly’s Last Jam in 1992.

A native of New York City, Hines grew up in Harlem. His father, Maurice Robert Hines, was also a dancer and actor. A young Gregory began tapping when he was just two years old.

Symptoms of Liver Cancer

Liver cancer affects approximately 42,000 Americans per year, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS). Causes of this disease may include excessive alcohol consumption or a family history of liver cancer.

Related: Remembering Revolutionary Jazz Musician John Coltrane Who Passed from Liver Cancer 54 Years Ago

Several different types of liver cancer exist, and the most common is hepatocellular carcinoma. Symptoms of this disease may include abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, decrease or loss of appetite, fatigue, nausea, and jaundice.

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Keeping a Cancer Battle Private

Hines was reportedly diagnosed with cancer over a year before he passed from the disease in 2003. He only told his closest friends, so the news of his death was a shock to his fans.

Related: Deciding When and Who to Tell About My Diagnosis Became a Burden

Many people chose to keep their cancer battles private for myriad reasons. Health is a highly personal matter, and it's up to you, and you alone, who you choose to share your diagnosis with.

Related: 'I Literally Beat Cancer on My Liver': 'Breaking Bad' Actor and 'Machete' Star Danny Trejo, 77, Privately Fought Cancer & Now Has New Memoir

Sharing news with others can feel cathartic, but some may prefer to work through their feelings independently. When telling someone you have cancer, you're often put in the position of managing their emotional response to your news, which may be tiring and emotionally draining. Honor your comfort zone and do what feels best and right for you.

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