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[8] [9] Gallstones are more common among women than men and occur more commonly after the age of 40. [2] Gallstones occur more frequently among certain ethnic groups than others. [2] For example, 48% of Native Americans experience gallstones, whereas gallstone rates in many parts of Africa are as low as 3%.
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases reports that 10 to 15 percent of the U.S. population, about 25 million people, are affected by gallstones. Your Guide to Gallstones
Gallstones are thought to be linked to the formation of cancer. Other risk factors include large (>1 cm) gallbladder polyps and having a highly calcified "porcelain" gallbladder. [21] Cancer of the gallbladder can cause attacks of biliary pain, yellowing of the skin , and weight loss. A large gallbladder may be able to be felt in the abdomen.
The assertion that porcelain gallbladder increases the incidence of gallbladder cancer is widely taught in medical schools but is based on studies from 1931 and 1962. [1] A prominent study aid for surgical residents even states that the risk of cancer in a porcelain gallbladder is 15%. [2]
Gallbladder diseases are diseases involving the gallbladder and is closely linked to biliary disease, with the most common cause being gallstones (cholelithiasis). [1] [2]The gallbladder is designed to aid in the digestion of fats by concentrating and storing the bile made in the liver and transferring it through the biliary tract to the digestive system through bile ducts that connect the ...
The causes are uncertain, but there is a definite correlation with increasing age and the presence of gallstones (cholelithiasis). Most affected individuals do not have symptoms. The gallbladder polyps are detected during abdominal ultrasonography performed for other reasons. [citation needed]
Gallstones can get trapped in the gastrointestinal tract, most commonly at the connection between the small and large intestines (ileocecal valve). When a gallstone gets trapped, it can lead to an intestinal obstruction , called gallstone ileus , leading to abdominal pain, vomiting, constipation , and abdominal distension .
Noting the increase in people under 50 being diagnosed with the disease, he urged others not to ignore symptoms and get screened. “Definitely push to get tested, especially if you have any ...