Gallbladder cancer
What causes gallbladder cancer?
In gallbladder cancer, abnormal cells grow within the gallbladder. It's not known why this happens, but certain things are thought to increase your chances of developing the condition.
Gallbladder cancer is more common in older people, and your chances of developing it increase with age. In the UK, most cases occur in people over the age of 70.
Lifestyle factors such as obesity , smoking and an unhealthy diet are believed to increase the risk of gallbladder cancer. However, there's not enough evidence to show a firm link between diet and gallbladder cancer.
There are also a number of conditions that can increase your chances of developing gallbladder cancer. For example, gallstones , cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder) and diabetes have been closely linked to the condition.
If you have a family history of gallstones, cholecystitis, or gallbladder cancer, you're more likely to develop these conditions yourself.
The Cancer Research UK website has more information about the risks and causes of gallbladder cancer .
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Gallbladder cancer is very rare. Around 800 people in the UK are diagnosed with the condition each year.
Symptoms of gallbladder cancer
In the early stages, gallbladder cancer doesn't cause symptoms, whichmeans it could be at an advanced stage by the time it's diagnosed. Symptoms that occur at a later stage can include: abdominal (
What causes gallbladder cancer?
In gallbladder cancer, abnormal cells grow within the gallbladder. It's not known why this happens, but certain things are thought to increase your chances of developing the condition. Gallbladder ca
Diagnosing gallbladder cancer
Your GP will examine you and ask about your symptoms. If they suspect gallbladder cancer, they may refer you to a specialist, usually a gastroenterologist (a doctor who specialises in conditions of th
Treating gallbladder cancer
The main treatment for gallbladder cancer is surgery to remove the gallbladder and possibly some of the surrounding tissue. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are also sometimes used, either on their o
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