Risk factors for gallbladder cancer : A population based case-control study in Delhi

Abstract

Abstract Background : Gallbladder (GB) cancer ranks among the first five common cancers in females in Delhi, India. The incidence rate of GB carcinoma is higher in North India compared to South India. Methods : A population based case-control study on 333 GB incident cases was carried out in Delhi to identify the risk factors. Cases were matched with two controls based on age (± 5 years), sex and marital status (in case of females) Results : Smoking and alcohol consumption increase the risk of GB cancer. The risk among those who smoke cigarette (OR=3.05, CI=1.33-6.98) was higher than that seen among bidi smokers (OR=2.25, CI=1.38-3.69). History of typhoid in the past and cholelithiasis increased the risk of GB cancer. Post menopausal women had a significant risk of GB cancer than the menstruating women. Consumption of urad dhal, moong dhal, milk, cottage cheese and butter also increased the risk of GB cancer. Conclusion : Smoking, alcohol consumption, typhoid in the past, cholelithiasis and certain dietary items are the some of the most important risk factors for gallbladder cancer.