Gallbladder cancer is a rare but aggressive cancer that begins in the gallbladder, a small organ beneath the liver that stores bile. It is often difficult to detect in its early stages because symptoms may not appear until the disease has advanced. Most gallbladder cancers are adenocarcinomas, which start in the glandular cells lining the organ.
The exact cause of gallbladder cancer is unknown, but certain risk factors increase the likelihood of developing it:
Gallstones – The most significant risk factor, as chronic inflammation may lead to cancer
Porcelain gallbladder – A condition where the gallbladder wall becomes calcified
Chronic gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis)
Obesity – Linked to gallbladder disease and hormonal changes
Older age – Most cases occur in people over 65
Female gender – Women are at higher risk than men
Family history – Genetic factors may play a role
Exposure to industrial chemicals and toxins
Gallbladder cancer often does not cause symptoms until it has spread. Common signs include:
Abdominal pain (especially in the upper right side)
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
Unexplained weight loss
Loss of appetite
Nausea and vomiting
Swelling in the abdomen
Dark urine and pale stools
Gallbladder cancer is diagnosed using:
Ultrasound – The first imaging test used to detect abnormalities
CT scan or MRI – To determine tumor size and spread
Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) – Provides a detailed view of the gallbladder
Blood tests – To check liver function and tumor markers
Biopsy – A tissue sample is analyzed for cancerous cells
Treatment depends on the stage of the cancer and overall health. Options include:
Cholecystectomy – Removal of the gallbladder (for early-stage cancer)
Radical surgery – Removes surrounding tissues and lymph nodes if cancer has spread
Used before surgery (neoadjuvant) to shrink the tumor or after surgery (adjuvant) to kill remaining cancer cells
Common drugs include gemcitabine and cisplatin
High-energy radiation targets and destroys cancer cells
Used alone or in combination with chemotherapy
Advanced treatments focus on blocking cancer cell growth or enhancing the immune system to fight cancer
In advanced cases, treatments focus on symptom relief and improving quality of life
Gallbladder cancer has a low survival rate, particularly if diagnosed at a late stage. Early detection significantly improves outcomes.
Maintain a healthy weight to lower the risk of gallstones
Follow a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Seek medical attention for persistent gallbladder issues (such as gallstones or chronic inflammation)
Avoid exposure to industrial toxins and chemicals
Gallbladder cancer is rare but aggressive. If you have persistent gallbladder-related symptoms, consult a doctor for timely diagnosis and treatment.