Risk factors of cholelithiasis in China: a Meta-analysis

Abstract

Objective To investigate the risk factors of Gallstone Disease (GD) by a meta-analysis, which hopefully will help to develop a strategy for its prevention. Methods Thirty case-control studies on risk factors of GD in Chinese patients reported from 1987 to 2014 were included. A quantitative comprehensive analysis and a heterogeneity test were conducted and the OR value and its 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated by using Stata 12.0. Results A family history of GD [OR(95%CI): 2.73(2.22~3.35)], alcohol drinking [OR(95%CI): 1.53(1.20~1.97)], a history of biliary tract roundworm [OR(95%CI): 5.28(3.10~9.00)], a history of biliary tract infection [OR(95%CI): 28.50(19.22~42.26)], a BMI≥25 kg/m2 [OR(95%CI): 1.70(1.51~1.92)], greasy food intake [OR(95%CI): 3.27(1.76~6.07)], a non-vegetarian diet [OR(95%CI): 2.03(1.48~2.77)], hyperlipidemia [OR(95%CI): 2.26(1.88~2.71)], menopause [OR(95%CI): 3.25(2.49~4.24)] and multiple pregnancies [OR(95%CI): 1.56(1.29~1.88)] were risk factors of GD in China. Besides, milk drinking [OR(95%CI): 0.43(0.34~0.55)] and regular breakfast [OR(95%CI): 0.19(0.06~0.64)] were protective factors of GD. Tea drinking [OR(95%CI): 0.43(0.34~0.55)], smoking [OR(95%CI): 0.86(0.51~1.45)], and a vegetarian diet [OR(95%CI): 0.24(0.05~1.13)] were possible GD’s protective factors as they were not statistically significant. Conclusion Having breakfast, drinking milk, keeping fit, less alcohol and avoiding Ascaris infection prevent the occurrence of GD in China. Key words: Cholelithiasis; Risk Factors; Meta-analysis; China