Gallstones are a primary risk factor for gallbladder cancer. However, most people with gallstones, which are common, do not develop gallbladder cancer. Other risk factors include:
- Gender (more women than men)
- Obesity
- Age – over 70
- Ethnicity – higher among Mexican Americans and Native Americans
- Bile duct cysts
- Abnormalities of the bile ducts
- Gallbladder polyps
- Industrial and environmental toxins